What is so special about hand setting?
Diamonds are frequently pushed into the wax before it is cast, mainly in the Far Eastern factories and Turkey, and after casting, they are already set. This method although cheap is not very secure, and the stones come loose very easily with wear. A hand set ring uses the strength of the metal being pushed over or around the stone and the tension will hold it in place for years. Roman set rings and seals can be seen in the V&A, with the settings still in remarkable condition holding the stones securely.
