A pavé row on a shank
Start from the structure of the ring, define the setting area and fit the stone size and layout to it. The layout should sit within the proportions and leave a sound structure for the work that follows.
The metal is part of the setting
You don’t only plan where the stones will sit. You also have to think about the metal that will remain after printing, casting, cleaning and polishing - the metal the setter will have to work.
A symmetrical surface
When the design is symmetrical, the layout should create a clear rhythm and keep the relationship between the edges, the center and the surrounding structure.
And on an organic surface?
Sometimes a few defined groups of stone sizes make it possible to fill an asymmetric shape while keeping a consistent look. Freedom is not randomness: the transitions and the relationship to the outline have to be managed.