
Dat then sets the center stone. He begins by cutting a precise seat on the inside of the prongs, creating a secure base that holds the stone level. Using a wax dop, he carefully lowers the diamond into place. Finally, he presses the tips of the prongs over the crown of the stone, locking it firmly into position. Once the setting is complete, the entire ring is cleaned, polished, and steamed to reveal its ultimate brilliance.

Dat begins the setting process by carefully enlarging each pilot hole to ensure a perfect fit for the diamond melee along the shank and around the halo.

Next, he installs the prongs by soldering 18-gauge wire into the halo. Using a precise torch temperature, he melts the solder, which, as it cools, securely fuses the prongs to the base casting.