Patent Publication Number: US-7707722-B1

Title: Technique for setting precious stones such as diamonds by a combination of prongs and a groove in a peripheral wall

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
   1. Field of the Invention 
   The present invention relates to the field of jewelry and more particularly to precious stones such as diamonds. The present invention focuses on the area of jewelry which is involved with setting precious stones such as diamonds into a mounting. 
   2. Description of the Prior Art 
   In general, the techniques for setting diamonds and other precious stones have been known for many centuries. The following ten (10) patents are relevant to the present invention: 
   1. U.S. Pat. No. 677,075 issued to R. Fuchs on Jun. 25, 1901 for “Cluster Setting” (hereinafter the “Fuchs Patent”); 
   2. U.S. Pat. No. 736,022 issued to F. W. Rhode on Aug. 11, 1903 for “Cluster Setting for Rings, Brooches, or the Like” (hereinafter the “Rhode Patent”); 
   3. U.S. Pat. No. 1,818,324 issued to S. A. Hamin on Aug. 11, 1931 for “Means and Method for Mounting Stones and the Like” (hereinafter the “&#39;324 Hamin Patent”); 
   4. U.S. Pat. No. 2,058,978 issued to S. A. Hamin on Sep. 14, 1935 for “Jewel Mounting” (hereinafter the “&#39;978 Hamin Patent”); 
   5. U.S. Pat. No. 2,774,231 issued to H. Peterson on Dec. 28, 1953 for “Mounting Having a Large Central Gem Overlying Adjacent Small Gems” (hereinafter the “Peterson Patent”); 
   6. U.S. Pat. No. 5,009,660 issued to Dostourian on Mar. 31, 1992 for “Mounting for Gem Stones” (hereinafter the “Dostourian Patent”); 
   7. U.S. Pat. No. Des. 409,518 issued to Nelson Chi Kai Ho on May 11, 1999 for “Diamond Article of Jewelry” (hereinafter the “Ho Patent”); 
   8. U.S. Pat. No. D480,659 S issued to Werner Pachauer on Oct. 14, 2003 for “The Ornamental Design for Overlap Setting” (hereinafter the “Pachauer Patent”); 
   9. U.S. Pat. No. D485,509 S issued to Simon Shagalov on Jan. 20, 2004 for “Jewelry Precious Stone Arrangement” (hereinafter the “&#39;509 Shagalov Patent”); 
   10. U.S. Pat. No. D498,699 S issued to Simon Shagalov on Nov. 23, 2004 for “Precious Stone Arrangement” (hereinafter the “&#39;699 Shagalov Patent”). 
   The Fuchs Patent which issued in 1901 has as its concept the use of a sheet metal ring with annular series of extending prongs which support the stones. The sheet metal ring is shown in  FIG. 4 . 
   The Rhode Patent which issued in 1903 discloses a cluster setting. 
   The &#39;324 Hamin Patent has a base member  11  is secured to a shank of the ring and the base comprises a shell having an upstanding wall  12  which is struck or serrated so as to generally conform to the outer edges of the series of encircling stones. The central stone member illustrated in  FIG. 3  is provided with an upstanding wall  21  having a plain or pointed top from which extends an inwardly directed shoulder  22  and a depending inwardly inclined wall or flange  23 . 
   The &#39;978 Hamin Patent which issued in 1936 has a jewelry mounting as best illustrated in  FIG. 3  where one stone is mounted above another. 
   The Peterson Patent is a mounting having a large central gem overlying adjacent small gems. In this case as you can see, the smaller gems are supported by prongs and then the large overlying gems partially cover those smaller gems. 
   The Dostourian Patent is a mounting for gem stones which basically shows a plurality of large round diamonds and small round diamonds with the pavilion portion of the large round diamonds bearing directly upon and overlying, at least a portion, of the crown of the smaller round diamonds such that individual metallic prongs for the diamonds are eliminated. 
   The Ho Patent is a design patent which protects the shape of the object wherein there are a multiplicity of smaller stones with a large stone covering a portion of the smaller stones. 
   The Pachauer Patent is also a design patent that protects the shape of the jewelry design. The design is that of an overlapping setting which shows a center stones surrounded by six stones, one above, one below and two on each side. 
   The &#39;509 Shagalov Patent is a jewelry arrangement of precious stones which is also a design patent. This design arrangement has the center stone above the other stones. 
   The &#39;699 Shagalov Patent is a design patent that protects the concept of overlaying stones wherein the center stone is supported by four stones on the outside and there are four lower stones which the center stone covers. 
   SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
   The present invention is a novel technique for setting a multiplicity of precious stones such as diamonds into a unique setting to enhance the beauty and presentation of the multiplicity of set stones, with the technique including setting a center stone into a socket and having it held by a multiplicity of prongs, an outer series of small stones wherein each outer stone is respectively placed in a socket and is held in most designs by a pair of the same prongs which hold the center stone and is also held by a lower groove in the interior facing surface of the outer wall, and an intermediate series of stones which are placed in a respective socket and are held by a pair of the prongs which also retain the center stone and in most designs all of the smaller stones and are also retained by a groove in the interior facing surface of the outer wall, the intermediate series of stones also serving to retain the small series of stones, especially if in the particular design the small series of stones are not partially held in place by a groove in the outer wall. In an optional design, the outer wall is surrounded by a bezel which contains a multiplicity of stones which are retained by two pairs of prongs. The shape of the outer wall can be oval, circular, square or trillion and if used, the corresponding bezel is the same shape. 
   It is an object of the present invention to create a technique for setting precious stones in a mounting so that the same multiplicity of prongs or sub-combination pairs of those prongs are used to retain a center stone and at least partially retain an outer series of small stones which are set at a level higher than the center stone and also to at least partially retain a series of intermediate size stones which are set at the highest level in the setting, the intermediate stones also being retained by a groove in the inner facing surface of the outer wall. Optionally, depending upon the shape of the design, the outer series of small stones can also be retained by a lower groove in the inner facing surface of the outer wall. Each of the outer series of small stones are also retained by two adjacent intermediate stones. 
   It is also an object of the present invention to provide a unique method of setting precious stones which utilizes a combination of prongs and a retaining groove in the interior surface of the outer wall of the setting to retain the stones. 
   It is a further object of the present invention to provide an outer series of preferably small stones which are respectively held by pairs of prongs, and with an intermediate series of stones which are held by the same prongs which hold the small stones with each intermediate stone being held by two prongs selected one each from an adjacent pair of prongs with the intermediate stones also being partially held in a groove within the interior surface of the outer wall so that each of the intermediate stones at least partially cover a portion of two adjacent outer stones so that the way the outer stones are held is concealed. 
   It is a another object of the present invention to vary the size of the stones so that the center stone can be the smallest stone or the intermediate stones and the outer stones can be the same size or larger than the center stone. 
   It is further object of the present invention to vary the size of the stones proportionately so to make the outer dimension smaller or larger. The stones  78  through  88 , will be the smallest in the entire mounting. The stones  90  through  100  will be the medium size stones in the entire mounting. And the center stone  76  will be the largest stone in the entire mounting. Further this proportion will always remain the same and will vary accordingly to achieve larger or smaller outer dimension. 
   It is also an object of the present invention to utilize the setting technique with jewelry in a multiplicity of different shapes such as oval, circular, square and trillion. 
   It is an additional object of the present invention to further embellish the jewelry design by having an exterior bezel which contains a multiplicity of stones which are held by oppositely disposed pairs of prongs. 
   Further novel features and other objects of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, discussion and the appended claims, taken in conjunction with the drawings. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     Referring particularly to the drawings for the purpose of illustration only and not limitation, there is illustrated: 
       FIG. 1  is a top plan view of an oval shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the orientation of the prongs and the stone retaining sockets without any precious stones retained thereon; 
       FIG. 2  is a bottom plan view of an oval shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the bottom of the retaining sockets; 
       FIG. 3  is a perspective view of an oval shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the orientation of the prongs and the stone retaining sockets without any precious stones retained thereon; 
       FIG. 4  is a top plan view of an oval shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the first step in the mounting process which is mounting the outer row of small stones wherein each small stone is placed in a respective outer socket and partially retained within a groove in the interior surface of the outer wall with two of the stones each retained by a prong; 
       FIG. 4A  is a top plan view of an oval shaped jewelry mounting illustrating an alternative first step in the mounting process which is mounting the center large stone first by mounting the center stone in the center socket with the stone retained by six prongs; 
       FIG. 5  is a top plan view of an oval shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the second step in the mounting process which is mounting the center stone in the center socket with the stone retained by six prongs; 
       FIG. 5A  is a top plan view of an oval shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the second step when the alternative from  FIG. 4A  is used, wherein the second step involves mounting the outer row of small stones wherein each small stone is placed in a respective outer socket and partially retained within a groove in the interior surface of the outer wall with two of the stones each retained by a prong; 
       FIG. 6  is a top plan view of an oval shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the third step in the mounting process which is mounting the intermediate size stones so that each stone is partially retained within a groove in the interior surface of the outer wall and partially retained by a pair of prongs so that an intermediate stone partially covers and retains the center stone and a pair of outer small stone; 
       FIG. 7  is a cross sectional view of an oval shaped jewelry mounting showing that the center stone is lowest, the small outer stones are at a level above the center stone and the intermediate stones are at a level above the small outer stones, the cross sectional view also showing that the small outer stones are partially retained in a lower groove in the interior surface of the outer wall and the intermediate stones are partially retained in an upper groove in the interior surface of the outer wall; 
       FIG. 8  is a top plan view of an oval shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the completed setting of the stones of the present invention; 
       FIG. 9  is a bottom plan view of an oval shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the completed setting of the stones of the present invention; 
       FIG. 10  is a perspective view of an oval shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the completed setting of the stones of the present invention; 
       FIG. 11  is a top plan view on an oval shaped mounting for a 0.50 carat stone setting showing the length and width of the mounting and the thickness of the outer wall; 
       FIG. 12  is a perspective view of an oval shaped mounting for a 0.50 carat stone setting showing the height of the outer wall, the height from the top of the mounting to the base level of the tip of the lowest stone, and the thickness of the top and bottom of the prongs; 
       FIG. 13  is a partial top plan view of an oval shaped mounting for a 0.50 carat stone setting showing the depth of the groove into which the intermediate stones are set and showing the amount of overlap of an intermediate stone over the center stone; 
       FIG. 14  is a top plan view of an oval shape mounting with all of the stones set therein and the mounting used as a pendant; 
       FIG. 15  is a bottom plan view of an oval shape mounting with all of the stones set therein and the mounting used as a pendant; 
       FIG. 16  is a perspective view of an oval shape mounting with all of the stones set therein and the mounting used as a pendant; 
       FIG. 17  is a top plan view of an oval shape mounting with all of the stones set therein and having an outer bezel comprising a multiplicity of stones with each stone retained by a pair of oppositely disposed prongs, and the entire mounting used as a pendant; 
       FIG. 18  is a bottom plan view of an oval shape mounting with all of the stones set therein and having an outer bezel comprising a multiplicity of stones with each stone retained by a pair of oppositely disposed prongs, and the entire mounting used as a pendant; 
       FIG. 19  is a perspective view of an oval shape mounting with all of the stones set therein and having an outer bezel comprising a multiplicity of stones with each stone retained by a pair of oppositely disposed prongs, and the entire mounting used as a pendant; 
       FIG. 20  is a top plan view of a round shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the orientation of the prongs and the stone retaining sockets without any precious stones retained thereon; 
       FIG. 21  is a bottom plan view of a round shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the bottom of the retaining sockets; 
       FIG. 22  is a perspective view of a round shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the orientation of the prongs and the stone retaining sockets without any precious stones retained thereon; 
       FIG. 23  is a top plan view of a round shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the first step in the mounting process which is mounting the outer row of small stones wherein each small stone is placed in a respective outer socket and partially retained within a groove in the interior surface of the outer wall with each stone retained by a prong. 
       FIG. 23A  is a top plan view of a round shaped jewelry mounting illustrating an alternative first step in the mounting process which is mounting the center large stone first by mounting the center stone in the center socket with the stone retained by six prongs; 
       FIG. 24  is a top plan view of a round shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the second step in the mounting process which is mounting the center stone in the center socket with the stone retained by six prongs. 
       FIG. 24A  is a top plan view of a round shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the second step when the alternative from  FIG. 23A  is used, wherein the second step involves mounting the outer row of small stones wherein each small stone is placed in a respective outer socket and partially retained within a groove in the interior surface of the outer wall with each stone retained by a prong; 
       FIG. 25  is a top plan view of a round shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the third step in the mounting process which is mounting the intermediate size stones so that each stone is partially retained within a groove in the interior surface of the outer wall and partially retained by a pair of prongs so that an intermediate stone partially covers and retains the center stone and a pair of outer small stones; 
       FIG. 26  is a cross sectional view of a round shaped jewelry mounting showing that the center stone is lowest, the small outer stones are at a level above the center stone and the intermediate stones are at a level above the small outer stones, the cross sectional view also showing that the small outer stones are partially retained in a lower groove in the interior surface of the outer wall and the intermediate stones are partially retained in an upper groove in the interior surface of the outer wall; 
       FIG. 27  is a top plan view of a round shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the completed setting of the stones of the present invention; 
       FIG. 28  is a bottom plan view of a round shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the completed setting of the stones of the present invention; 
       FIG. 29  is a perspective view of a round shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the completed setting of the stones of the present invention; 
       FIG. 30  is a top plan view on a round shaped mounting for a 0.50 carat stone setting showing the length and width of the mounting and the thickness of the outer wall; 
       FIG. 31  is a perspective view of a round shaped mounting for a 0.50 carat stone setting showing the height of the outer wall, the height from the top of the mounting to the base level of the tip of the lowest stone, and the thickness of the top and bottom of the prongs; 
       FIG. 32  is a partial top plan view of a round shaped mounting for a 0.50 carat stone setting showing the depth of the groove into which the intermediate stones are set and showing the amount of overlap of an intermediate stone over the center stone; 
       FIG. 33  is a top plan view of a round shaped mounting with all of the stones set therein and the mounting used as a pendant; 
       FIG. 34  is a bottom plan view of a round shape mounting with all of the stones set therein and the mounting used as a pendant; 
       FIG. 35  is a perspective plan view of a round shape mounting with all of the stones set therein and the mounting used as a pendant; 
       FIG. 36  is a top plan view of a round shape mounting with all of the stones set therein and having an outer bezel comprising a multiplicity of stones with each stone retained by a pair of oppositely disposed prongs, and the entire mounting used as a pendant; 
       FIG. 37  is a bottom plan view of a round shape mounting with all of the stones set therein and having an outer bezel comprising a multiplicity of stones with each stone retained by a pair of oppositely disposed prongs, and the entire mounting used as a pendant; 
       FIG. 38  is a perspective view of a round shape mounting with all of the stones set therein and having an outer bezel comprising a multiplicity of stones with each stone retained by a pair of oppositely disposed prongs, and the entire mounting used as a pendant; 
       FIG. 39  is a top plan view of a square shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the orientation of the prongs and the stone retaining sockets without any precious stones retained thereon; 
       FIG. 40  is a bottom plan view of a square shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the bottom of the retaining sockets; 
       FIG. 41  is a perspective view of a square shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the orientation of the prongs and the stone retaining sockets without any precious stones retained thereon; 
       FIG. 42  is a top plan view of a square shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the first step in the mounting process which is mounting the outer row of small stones wherein each small stone is placed in a respective outer socket and partially retained within a groove in the interior surface of the outer wall with each stone retained by a pair of prongs; 
       FIG. 42A  is a top plan view of a square shaped jewelry mounting illustrating an alternative first step in the mounting process which is mounting the center large stone first by mounting the center stone in the center socket with the stone retained by eight prongs; 
       FIG. 43  is a top plan view of a square shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the second step in the mounting process which is mounting the center stone in the center socket with the stone retained by eight prongs; 
       FIG. 43A  is a top plan view of a square shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the second step when the alternative from  FIG. 42A  is used, wherein the second step involves mounting the outer row of small stones wherein each small stone is placed in a respective outer socket and partially retained within a groove in the interior surface of the outer wall each stone retained by a pair of prongs; 
       FIG. 44  is a top plan view of a square shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the third step in the mounting process which is mounting the intermediate size stones so that each stone is partially retained within a groove in the interior surface of the outer wall and partially retained by a pair of prongs so that an intermediate stone partially covers and retains the center stone and a pair of outer small stones; 
       FIG. 45  is a cross sectional view of a square shaped jewelry mounting showing that the center stone is lowest, the small outer stones are at a level above the center stone and the intermediate stones are at a level above the small outer stones, the cross sectional view also showing that the small outer stones are partially retained in a lower groove in the interior surface of the outer wall and the intermediate stones are partially retained in an upper groove in the interior surface of the outer wall; 
       FIG. 46  is a top plan view of a square shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the completed setting of the stones of the present invention; 
       FIG. 47  is a bottom plan view of a square shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the completed setting of the stones of the present invention; 
       FIG. 48  is a perspective view of a square shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the completed setting of the stones of the present invention; 
       FIG. 49  is a top plan view on a square shaped mounting for a 0.50 carat stone setting showing the length and width of the mounting and the thickness of the outer wall; 
       FIG. 50  is a perspective view of a square shaped mounting for a 0.50 carat stone setting showing the height of the outer wall, the height from the top of the mounting to the base level of the tip of the lowest stone, and the thickness of the top and bottom of the prongs; 
       FIG. 51  is a partial top plan view of a square shaped mounting for a 0.50 carat stone setting showing the depth of the groove into which the intermediate stones are set and showing the amount of overlap of an intermediate stone over the center stone; 
       FIG. 52  is a top plan view of a square shaped mounting with all of the stones set therein and the mounting used as a pendant; 
       FIG. 53  is a bottom plan view of a square shape mounting with all of the stones set therein and the mounting used as a pendant; 
       FIG. 54  is a perspective plan view of a square shape mounting with all of the stones set therein and the mounting used as a pendant; 
       FIG. 55  is a top plan view of a square shape mounting with all of the stones set therein and having an outer bezel comprising a multiplicity of stones with each stone retained by a pair of oppositely disposed prongs, and the entire mounting used as a pendant; 
       FIG. 56  is a bottom plan view of a square shape mounting with all of the stones set therein and having an outer bezel comprising a multiplicity of stones with each stone retained by a pair of oppositely disposed prongs, and the entire mounting used as a pendant; 
       FIG. 57  is a perspective view of a square shape mounting with all of the stones set therein and having an outer bezel comprising a multiplicity of stones with each stone retained by a pair of oppositely disposed prongs, and the entire mounting used as a pendant; 
       FIG. 58  is a top plan view of a trillion shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the orientation of the prongs and the stone retaining sockets without any precious stones retained thereon; 
       FIG. 59  is a bottom plan view of a trillion shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the bottom of the retaining sockets; 
       FIG. 60  is a perspective view of a trillion shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the orientation of the prongs and the stone retaining sockets without any precious stones retained thereon; 
       FIG. 61  is a top plan view of a trillion shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the first step in the mounting process which is mounting the outer row of small stones wherein each small stone is placed in a respective outer socket and partially retained within a groove in the interior surface of the outer wall with each of the stones retained by two prongs; 
       FIG. 61A  is a top plan view of a trillion shaped jewelry mounting illustrating an alternative first step in the mounting process which is mounting the center large stone first by mounting the center stone in the center socket with the stone retained by six prongs; 
       FIG. 62  is a top plan view of a trillion shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the second step in the mounting process which is mounting the center stone in the center socket with the stone retained by six prongs; 
       FIG. 62A  is a top plan view of a trillion shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the second step when the alternative from  FIG. 61A  is used, wherein the second step involves mounting the outer row of small stones wherein each small stone is placed in a respective outer socket and partially retained within a groove in the interior surface of the outer wall each stone retained by a pair of prongs; 
       FIG. 63  is a top plan view of a trillion shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the third step in the mounting process which is mounting the intermediate size stones so that each stone is partially retained within a groove in the interior surface of the outer wall and partially retained by a pair of prongs so that an intermediate stone partially covers and retains the center stone and a pair of outer small stones; 
       FIG. 64  is a cross sectional view of a trillion shaped jewelry mounting showing that the center stone is lowest, the small outer stones are at a level above the center stone and the intermediate stones are at a level above the small outer stones, the cross sectional view also showing that the small outer stones are partially retained in a lower groove in the interior surface of the outer wall and the intermediate stones are partially retained in an upper groove in the interior surface of the outer wall; 
       FIG. 65  is a top plan view of a trillion shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the completed setting of the stones of the present invention; 
       FIG. 66  is a bottom plan view of a trillion shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the completed setting of the stones of the present invention; 
       FIG. 67  is a perspective view of an trillion shaped jewelry mounting illustrating the completed setting of the stones of the present invention; 
       FIG. 68  is a top plan view on a trillion shaped mounting for a 0.50 carat stone setting showing the length and width of the mounting and the thickness of the outer wall; 
       FIG. 69  is a perspective view of a trillion shaped mounting for a 0.50 carat stone setting showing the height of the outer wall, the height from the top of the mounting to the base level of the tip of the lowest stone, and the thickness of the top and bottom of the prongs; 
       FIG. 70  is a partial top plan view of a trillion shaped mounting for a 0.50 carat stone setting showing the depth of the groove into which the intermediate stones are set and showing the amount of overlap of an intermediate stone over the center stone; 
       FIG. 71  is a top plan view of a trillion shaped mounting with all of the stones set therein and the mounting used as a pendant; 
       FIG. 72  is a bottom plan view of a trillion shape mounting with all of the stones set therein and the mounting used as a pendant; 
       FIG. 73  is a perspective plan view of a trillion shape mounting with all of the stones set therein and the mounting used as a pendant; 
       FIG. 74  is a top plan view of a trillion shape mounting with all of the stones set therein and having an outer bezel comprising a multiplicity of stones with each stone retained by a pair of oppositely disposed prongs, and the entire mounting used as a pendant; 
       FIG. 75  is a bottom plan view of a trillion shape mounting with all of the stones set therein and having an outer bezel comprising a multiplicity of stones with each stone retained by a pair of oppositely disposed prongs, and the entire mounting used as a pendant; and 
       FIG. 76  is a perspective view of a trillion shape mounting with all of the stones set therein and having an outer bezel comprising a multiplicity of stones with each stone retained by a pair of oppositely disposed prongs, and the entire mounting used as a pendant. 
   

   DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
   Although specific embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings, it should be understood that such embodiments are by way of example only and merely illustrative of but a small number of the many possible specific embodiments which can represent applications of the principles of the present invention. Various changes and modifications obvious to one skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains are deemed to be within the spirit, scope and contemplation of the present invention as further defined in the appended claims. 
   The present invention technique for setting diamonds and other precious stones will first be described with an oval shaped mounting which has a mounting base  10 . As illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the oval shaped mounting base  10  has a floor  11  which is surrounded by an outer wall  12  which has an outer surface  14  and an inner surface  16 . Supported on the floor are a multiplicity of sockets into which the precious stones such as diamonds are set. There is a large center socket  18  into which a large center stone will be placed. Adjacent the portion of the floor  11  which lies adjacent the interior surface  14  of outer wall  12  there are a multiplicity of small sockets  20 ,  22 ,  24 ,  26 ,  28  and  30  which are spaced around the interior of the oval shaped mounting  10 . As illustrated in  FIG. 3 , a portion of each socket  20 ,  22 ,  24 ,  26 .  28  and  30  extend into a lower channel or groove  82  in the interior surface  16  of outer wall  12 . As illustrated in  FIG. 3 , the sockets  20 ,  22 ,  24 ,  26 ,  28  and  30  are at a level slightly lower then center socket  18  and intermediate sockets  32 ,  34 ,  36 ,  38 ,  40  and  42 . Finally, there are a multiplicity of intermediate sockets  32 ,  34 ,  36 ,  38 ,  40 , and  42  wherein a respective intermediate socket is positioned between two small sockets as illustrated in  FIG. 1 . In this design upper intermediate socket  32  and lower intermediate socket  38  are larger than the other intermediate sockets  34 ,  36 ,  40  and  42 . As illustrated in  FIG. 3 , a portion of each intermediate socket  32 ,  34 ,  36 ,  38 ,  40  and  42  lies adjacent to the interior surface  16  of outer wall  18 . Also, as illustrated in  FIG. 3 , the intermediate sockets  32 ,  34 ,  36 ,  38 .  40  and  42  are at a higher level from sockets  20 ,  22 ,  24 ,  26 ,  28  and  30 .  FIG. 2  is a bottom plan view of the oval shaped mounting illustrating how the various sockets appear from the bottom of the mounting. 
   Finally a multiplicity of prongs  44 ,  46 ,  48 ,  50 ,  52  and  54  are positioned around center socket  18  so that a respective pair of prongs also lies adjacent an intermediate socket  32 ,  34 ,  36 ,  38 .  40  and  42 . In the oval embodiment, only two of the prongs  48  and  54  lie adjacent a respective small socket  24  and  30  while the prongs do not lie adjacent the outer four small sockets  20 ,  22 ,  24 ,  26  and  28 . In embodiments of other shapes which will be discussed, including round, square and trillion, all of the prongs also respectively lie adjacent a respective one of all of the small sockets. As illustrated in  FIG. 3 , the prongs are generally frustum shaped. 
   The stone setting steps for the oval shaped mounting  10  are illustrated in  FIGS. 4 through 6 . The first step in the process is to mount the small stones in the small sockets. A small stone  58 ,  60 ,  62 ,  64 ,  66  and  68  is respectively mounted in a small socket  20 ,  22 ,  24 ,  26 ,  28  and  30  so that the pavilion of each small stone is placed within a respective small socket and a portion of the girdle of each small stone is placed within lower groove  82  and is partially retained in a socket by the groove  82 . For small stones  62  and  68 , they are also retained by a respective prong  48  and  54 . 
   The next step in the process is to place the large center stone  56  into the larger center socket  18  so that its pavilion is placed into the socket  18 . The center stone  56  is held by the six prongs  44 ,  46 ,  48 ,  50 ,  52  and  54  holding the girdle of the large center stone  56 . 
   While the setting process has been described as setting the small outer stones  58 ,  60 ,  62 ,  64 ,  66  and  68  first and then setting the large center stone  56 , it will be appreciated that it is also within the spirit and scope of the present invention to reverse the process and set the large center stone  56  first and then set the small outer stones  58 ,  60 ,  62 ,  64 ,  66 , and  68 . 
   As illustrated in  FIGS. 6 and 7 , the small outer stones  58 ,  60 ,  62 ,  64 ,  66 , and  68  are at a level lower than large center stone  56 . 
   The final step in the process is to set the intermediate stones. Each intermediate stone  70 ,  72 ,  74 ,  76 ,  78  and  80  is respectively placed into an intermediate socket  32 ,  34 ,  36 ,  38 ,  40  and  42  so that its pavilion is placed into a socket and a portion of its girdle extends into and is partially retained by upper groove  84  and each intermediate stone is also respectively partially retained by a pair of prongs. As illustrated in  FIG. 6 , prongs  44  and  46  partially retain larger intermediate stone  70 , prongs  46  and  48  partially retain intermediate stone  72 , prongs  48  and  50  partially retain intermediate stone  74 , prongs  50  and  52  partially retain larger intermediate stone  76 , prongs  52  and  54  partially retain intermediate stone  78  and prongs  54  and  44  partially retain intermediate stone  80 . The intermediate stones are above the smaller outer stones and are at the highest level in the setting. 
   In addition, each intermediate stone partially covers, and retains a pair of adjacent smaller outer stones. As illustrated in  FIG. 6 , in this manner intermediate stone  70  partially covers and thereby partially retains smaller outer stones  58  and  60 . Intermediate stone  72  partially covers and thereby partially retains smaller outer stones  60  and  62 . Intermediate stone  74  partially covers and thereby partially retains smaller outer stones  62  and  64 . Intermediate stone  76  partially covers and thereby partially retains smaller outer stones  64  and  66 . Intermediate stone  78  partially covers and thereby partially retains smaller outer stones  66  and  68 . Intermediate stone  80  partially covers and thereby partially retains smaller outer stones  68  and  58 . Each intermediate stone also partially overlaps center stone  56  and helps to retain it. 
   Referring to the cross sectional view of  FIG. 7 , it can be seen that the center stone  56  is at the lowest level, the smaller outer stones  58 ,  60 ,  62 ,  64 ,  66 , and  68  are at the next higher level and are partially retained by channel or groove  82  in the interior surface  16  of outer wall  12  and also partially covered and retained by an intermediate stone, and intermediate stones  70 ,  72 ,  74 ,  76 ,  78  and  80  are partially retained by a groove or channel  84  in the interior surface  16  of outer wall  12  and also partially retained by a pair of prongs. 
   The final finished setting for an oval mounting  10  is illustrated in  FIGS. 8 ,  9  and  10 . 
   Referring to  FIGS. 11 through 13 , there are illustrated various dimensions for a 0.50 carat model oval setting. It will be appreciated that these dimensions are provided for illustration only and not limitation and other dimensions are within the spirit and scope of the present invention Referring to  FIG. 11 , the length L 1  of the oval mounting  10  can be 9.35 millimeters, the width W 1  can be 7.65 millimeters, and the wall thickness TH 1  can be 0.95 millimeters Referring to  FIG. 12 , the overall height H 1  of the oval shaped mounting  10  can be 3.85 millimeters and the height HB 1  from the base  11  to the top of the mounting can be 3.35 millimeters. With respect to the prongs, the width or thickness PRT 1  of the top can be 0.45 millimeters and the width or thickness PRB 1  of the bottom can be 0.7 millimeters. Referring to  FIG. 13 , the depth of the girdle on the intermediate stones penetrating into the channel  84  designated as INT  1  can be 0.2 millimeters and the amount of the overlap O 1  of each intermediate stone over the center stone  56  can be 0.15 millimeters. 
   In one use the oval shaped mounting  10  with the multiplicity of stones set as previously described can be used in a pendant as illustrated in  FIGS. 14 through 16  where a portion of the exterior surface  14  of outer wall  12  is fastened to a ring  86  which in is connected to a sleeve  88  which can be worn on a chain. In another use, referring to  FIGS. 17 through 19 , a bezel  98  which contains an outer wall  90  having a multiplicity of stones  92  retained by two adjacent pairs of prongs  94  and  96  can be used to further embellish the oval shaped mounting  10 . 
   The present invention technique for setting diamonds and other precious stones will next be described with a round shaped mounting which has a mounting base  110 . As illustrated in  FIG. 20 , the round shaped mounting base  110  has a floor  111  which is surrounded by an outer wall  112  which has an outer surface  114  and an inner surface  116 . Supported on the floor are a multiplicity of sockets into which the precious stones such as diamonds are set. There is a large center socket  118  into which a large center stone will be placed. Adjacent the portion of the floor  111  which lies adjacent the interior surface  116  of outer wall  112  there are a multiplicity of outer sockets  120 ,  122 ,  124 ,  126 ,  128  and  130  which are spaced around the interior of the round shaped mounting  110 . As illustrated in  FIG. 20 , a portion of each socket  120 ,  122 ,  124 ,  126 ,  128  and  130  extend into a lower channel or groove  182  in the interior surface  116  of outer wall  112 . As illustrated in  FIGS. 20 and 22 , the sockets  120 ,  122 ,  124 ,  126 ,  128  and  130  are at a level which is slightly lower than center socket  118  and intermediate sockets  132 ,  134 ,  136 ,  138 ,  140  and  142 . Finally, there are a multiplicity of intermediate sockets  132 ,  134 ,  136 ,  138 ,  140 , and  14  wherein a respective intermediate socket is positioned between two small sockets as illustrated in  FIG. 20 . As illustrated, all of the intermediate sockets are the same size. As illustrated in  FIGS. 20 and 22 , a portion of each intermediate socket  132 ,  134 ,  136 ,  138 ,  140  and  142 , lies adjacent to the interior surface  116  of outer wall  118 . Also, as illustrated in  FIGS. 20 and 22 , the intermediate sockets  132 ,  134 ,  136 ,  138 ,  140  and  142  are at a level above small sockets  120 ,  122 ,  124 ,  126 ,  128  and  130 .  FIG. 21  is a bottom plan view of the round shaped mounting illustrating how the various sockets appear from the bottom of the mounting. 
   Finally a multiplicity of prongs  144 ,  146 ,  148 ,  150 ,  152  and  154  are positioned around center socket  118  so that a respective prong also lies adjacent an outer sockets  120 , 122 , 124 , 126 , 128  and  130  and the intermediate socket  132 ,  134 ,  136 ,  138 ,  140  and  142 . As illustrated in  FIG. 22 , the prongs are generally frustum shaped. 
   The stone setting steps for the round shaped mounting  110  are illustrated in FIGS.  23  and  24 . The first step in the process is to mount the outer stones in the outer sockets. An outer stone  158 ,  160 ,  162 ,  164 ,  166  and  168  is respectively mounted in an outer socket  120 ,  122 ,  124 ,  126 ,  128  and  130  so that the pavilion of each outer stone is placed within a respective outer socket and a portion of the girdle of each outer stone is placed within lower groove  182  and is partially retained in a socket by the groove  182 . Each outer stone is also partially retained by a respective prong, as illustrated in  FIG. 23 . 
   The next step in the process is to place the large center stone  156  into the larger center socket  118  so that its pavilion is placed into the socket  118 . The center stone  156  is held by the six prongs  144 ,  146 ,  148 ,  150 ,  152  and  154  holding the girdle of the large center stone  156 . 
   While the setting process has been described as setting the small outer stones  158 ,  160 ,  162 ,  164 ,  166  and  168  first and then setting the large center stone  156 , it will be appreciated that it is also within the spirit and scope of the present invention to reverse the process and set the large center stone  156  first and then set the small outer stones  158 ,  160 ,  162 ,  164 ,  166 , and  168 . 
   As illustrated in  FIG. 23 , the small outer stones  158 ,  160 ,  162 ,  164 ,  166 , and  168  are at a level below the large center stone  156 . 
   The final step in the process is to set the intermediate stones. Each intermediate stone  170 ,  172 ,  174 ,  176 ,  178  and  180  is respective placed into an intermediate socket  132 ,  134 ,  136 ,  138 ,  140  and  142  so that its pavilion is placed into a socket and a portion of its girdle extends into and is partially retained by upper groove  184  and each intermediate stone is also respectively partially retained by a pair of prongs. As illustrated in  FIG. 25 , prongs  144  and  146  partially retain larger intermediate stone  172 , prongs  146  and  148  partially retain intermediate stone  174 , prongs  148  and  150  partially retain intermediate stone  176 , prongs  150  and  152  partially retain larger intermediate stone  178 , prongs  152  and  154  partially retain intermediate stone  180 , and prongs  154  and  144  partially retain intermediate stone  170 . The intermediate stones are above the smaller outer stones and are at the highest level in the setting. 
   In addition, each intermediate stone partially covers and retains a pair of adjacent smaller outer stones. As illustrated in  FIG. 25 , in this manner intermediate stone  170  partially covers and thereby partially retains smaller outer stones  158  and  168 . Intermediate stone  172  partially covers and thereby partially retains smaller outer stones  158  and  160 . Intermediate stone  174  partially covers and thereby partially retains smaller outer stones  160  and  16 . Intermediate stone  176  partially covers and thereby partially retains smaller outer stones  162  and  164 . Intermediate stone  178  partially covers and thereby partially retains smaller outer stones  164  and  166 . Intermediate stone  180  partially covers and thereby partially retains smaller outer stones  166  and  168 . Each intermediate stone also partially overlaps center stone  156  and helps to retain it. 
   Referring to the cross sectional view of  FIG. 26 , it can be seen that the center stone  156  is at the level slightly higher then the outer stones  162 ,  164  and  166  but, lower than the intermediate stones  174 , 176 , 178  and  180  also the center stone  156  is held by 6 prongs and is partially covered and retained by an intermediate stones. Smaller outer stones  162 ,  164 , and  166  are at the lowest level and are held by single prong and partially retained by channel or groove  182  which is in the interior surface  116  of outer wall  112  and also partially covered and retained by an intermediate stone, and intermediate stones  174 , 176 , 178  and  180  are partially retained by a groove or channel  184  in the interior surface  116  of outer wall  112  and also partially retained by a pair of prongs. 
   The final finished setting for a round mounting  110  is illustrated in  FIGS. 27 ,  28  and  29 . 
   Referring to  FIGS. 30 through 32 , there are illustrated various dimensions for a 0.50 carat model round setting. It will be appreciated that these dimensions are provided for illustration only and not limitation and other dimensions are within the spirit and scope of the present invention. Referring to  FIG. 30 , the length L 2  and width W 2  of the round mounting  110  can be 8.6 millimeters, and the wall thickness TH 2  can be 1.15 millimeters. Referring to  FIG. 31 , the overall height H 2  of the round shaped mounting  110  can be 3.6 millimeters and the height HB 2  from the base  111  to the top of the mounting can be 3.10 millimeters. With respect to the prongs, the width or thickness PRT 2  of the top can be 0.45 millimeters and the width or thickness PRB 2  of the bottom can be 0.7 millimeters. Referring to  FIG. 32 , the depth of the girdle on the intermediate stones penetrating into the channel  184  designated as INT  2  can be 0.2 millimeters and the amount of the overlap  02  of each intermediate stone over the center stone  156  can be 0.15 millimeters. 
   In one use the round shaped mounting  110  with the multiplicity of stones set as previously described can be used in a pendant as illustrated in  FIGS. 33 through 35  where a portion of the exterior surface  114  of outer wall  112  is fastened to a ring  186  which in is connected to a sleeve  188  which can be worn on a chain. In another use, referring to  FIGS. 36 through 38 , a bezel  198  which contains an outer wall  190  having a multiplicity of stones  192  retained by two adjacent pairs of prongs  194  and  196  can be used to further embellish the round shaped mounting  110 . 
   The present invention technique for setting diamonds and other precious stones will next be described with a square shaped mounting which has a mounting base  210 . As illustrated in  FIG. 39 , the square shaped mounting base  210  has a floor  211  which is surrounded by an outer wall  212  which has an outer surface  214  and an inner surface  216 . Supported on the floor are a multiplicity of sockets into which the precious stones such as diamonds are set. There is a large center socket  218  into which a large center stone will be placed. Adjacent the portion of the floor  211  which lies adjacent the interior surface  216  of outer wall  212  there are a multiplicity of outer sockets  220 ,  222 ,  224  and  226  which are spaced around the interior of the square shaped mounting  210 . As illustrated in  FIGS. 39  and  41 , a portion of each socket  220 ,  222 ,  224  and  226  extends into a lower channel or groove  282  in the interior surface  216  of outer wall  212 . As illustrated in  FIG. 41 , the sockets  220 ,  222 ,  224  and  226  are at a level which is below center socket  218  and intermediate sockets  232 ,  234 ,  236 , and  238 . Finally, there are a multiplicity of intermediate sockets  232 ,  234 ,  236  and  238  wherein a respective intermediate socket is positioned between two outer sockets as illustrated in  FIG. 39 . As illustrated, all of the intermediate sockets are the same size. As illustrated in  FIGS. 39 and 41 , a portion of each intermediate socket  232 ,  234 ,  236  and  238  lies adjacent to the interior surface  216  of outer wall  218 . Also, as illustrated in  FIG. 41 , the intermediate sockets  232 ,  234 ,  236  and  238  are at a level higher than the outer sockets  220 ,  222 ,  224  and  226 .  FIG. 40  is a bottom plan view of the square shaped mounting illustrating how the various sockets appear from the bottom of the mounting. 
   Finally a multiplicity of prongs  244 ,  246 ,  248 ,  250 ,  252 ,  254 ,  251  and  253  are positioned around center socket  218  so that a respective pair of prongs also lies adjacent an intermediate socket  232 ,  234 ,  236  and  238  and a different pair of prongs also lies adjacent an outer socket  220 ,  222 ,  224  and  226 . As illustrated in  FIG. 41 , the prongs are generally frustum shaped. 
   The stone setting steps for the square shaped mounting  210  are illustrated in  FIGS. 42 through 44 . The first step in the process is to mount the outer stones in the small sockets. An outer stone  258 ,  260 ,  262  and  264  is respectively mounted in an outer socket  220 ;  222 ,  224  and  226  so that the pavilion of each small stone is placed within a respective small socket and a portion of the girdle of each small stone is placed within lower groove  282  and is partially retained in a socket by the groove  282 . The outer stones are also retained by a respective pair of prongs. Prongs  244  and  246  retain outer stone  258 . Prongs  248  and  250  retain outer stone  260 . Prongs  252  and  254  retain outer stone  262 . Prongs  251  and  253  retain outer stone  264 . 
   The next step in the process is to place the large center stone  256  into the larger center socket  218  so that its pavilion is placed into the socket  218 . The center stone  256  is held by the eight prongs  244 ,  246 ,  248 ,  250 ,  252 ,  254 ,  251  and  253  holding the girdle of the large center stone  256 . 
   As illustrated in  FIGS. 42 ,  43  and  48 , the outer stones  258 ,  260 ,  262  and  264  are at a level below large center stone  256  and the center stone  256  partially overlaps each other stone. 
   While the setting process has been described as setting the small outer stones  258 , 260 , 262  and  264  first, and then setting the large center stone  256 , it will be appreciated that it is also within the spirit and scope of the present invention to reverse the process and set the large center stone  256  first and then set the small outer stones  258 , 260 , 262  and  264 . 
   The final step in the process is to set the intermediate stones. Each intermediate stone  270 ,  272 ,  274  and  276  is respectively placed into an intermediate socket  232 ,  234 ,  236  and  238  so that its pavilion is placed into a socket and a portion of its girdle extends into and is partially retained by upper groove  284  and each intermediate stone is also respectively partially retained by a pair of prongs. As illustrated in  FIG. 44 , prongs  246  and  248  partially retain larger intermediate stone  270 , prongs  250  and  252  partially retain intermediate stone  272 , prongs  254  and  251  partially retain intermediate stone  274 , prongs  253  and  244  partially retain intermediate stone  276 . The intermediate stones are above the outer stones and are at the highest level in the setting. 
   In addition, each intermediate stone partially covers and retains a pair of adjacent smaller outer stones. As illustrated in  FIG. 44 , in this manner intermediate stone  270  partially covers and thereby partially retains smaller outer stones  258  and  260 . Intermediate stone  272  partially covers and thereby partially retains outer stones  260  and  262 . Intermediate stone  274  partially covers and thereby partially retains outer stones  262  and  264 . Intermediate stone  276  partially covers and thereby partially retains outer stones  264  and  258 . 
   Referring to the perspective view of  FIG. 48 , it can be seen that the outer stones  258 ,  260 ,  262  and  264  are at the lowest level and are partially retained by channel or groove  282  in the interior surface  216  of outer wall  212  and partially retained by a pair of prongs and also partially retained and covered by center stone  256  and an intermediate stone, the center stone  256  is at the next higher level and also partially covered and retained by an intermediate stone and retained by the eight prongs, and intermediate stones  270 ,  272 ,  274  and  276  are partially retained by a groove or channel  284  in the interior surface  216  of outer wall  212  and also partially retained by a pair of prongs. 
   The final finished setting for a square mounting  210  is illustrated in  FIGS. 46 ,  47  and  48 . 
   Referring to  FIGS. 49 through 51 , there are illustrated various dimensions for a 0.50 carat model square setting. It will be appreciated that these dimensions are provided for illustration only and not limitation and other dimensions are within the spirit and scope of the present invention Referring to  FIG. 49 , the length L 3  and width W 3  of the square mounting  210  can be 7.80 millimeters, and the wall thickness TH 3  can be 0.85 millimeters Referring to  FIG. 50 , the overall height H 3  of the square shaped mounting  210  can be 3.85 millimeters and the height HB 3  from the base  211  to the top of the mounting can be 3.45 millimeters. With respect to the prongs, the width or thickness PRT 3  of the top can be 0.45 millimeters and the width or thickness PRB 3  of the bottom can be 0.6 millimeters. Referring to  FIG. 51 , the depth of the girdle on the intermediate stones penetrating into the channel  284  designated as INT  3  can be 0.2 millimeters and the amount of the overlap O 3  of each intermediate stone over the center stone  256  can be 0.15 millimeters. 
   In one use the square shaped mounting  210  with the multiplicity of stones set as previously described can be used in a pendant as illustrated in  FIGS. 52 through 54 , where a portion of the exterior surface  214  of outer wall  212  is fastened to a ring  286  which in is connected to a sleeve  288  which can be worn on a chain. In another use, referring to  FIGS. 55 through 57 , a bezel  298  which contains an outer wall  290  having a multiplicity of stones  292  retained by two adjacent pairs of prongs  294  and  296  can be used to further embellish the square shaped mounting  210 . 
   The present invention technique for setting diamonds and other precious stones will next be described with a trillion shaped mounting which has a mounting base  310 . As illustrated in  FIG. 58 , the trillion shaped mounting base  310  has a floor  311  which is surrounded by an outer wall  312  which has an outer surface  314  and an inner surface  316 . Supported on the floor are a multiplicity of sockets into which the precious stones such as diamonds are set. There is a center socket  318  into which a center stone will be placed. Adjacent the portion of the floor  311  which lies adjacent the interior surface  316  of outer wall  312  there are a multiplicity of outer sockets  320 ,  322  and  324  which are spaced around the interior of the trillion shaped mounting  310 . As illustrated in  FIG. 60 , a portion of each socket  320 ,  322  and  324  extend into a lower channel or groove  382  in the interior surface  316  of outer wall  312 . As illustrated in  FIG. 58 , the sockets  320 ,  322  and  324  are at a level which is below center socket  318 . Finally, there are a multiplicity of intermediate sockets  332 ,  334  and  336  wherein a respective intermediate socket is positioned between two outer sockets as illustrated in  FIG. 58 . As illustrated, all of the intermediate sockets are the same size. As illustrated in  FIG. 60 , a portion of each intermediate socket  332 ,  334  and  336  lies adjacent to the interior surface  316  of outer wall  318 . Also, as illustrated in  FIG. 60 , the intermediate sockets  332 ,  334  and  336  are at a level above outer sockets  320 ,  322  and  324 .  FIG. 59  is a bottom plan view of the trillion shaped mounting illustrating how the various sockets appear from the bottom of the mounting. 
   Finally a multiplicity of prongs  344 ,  346 ,  348 ,  350 ,  352  and  354  are positioned around center socket  318  so that a respective pair of prongs also lies adjacent an intermediate socket  332 ,  334  and  336  and a different pair of prongs lie adjacent an outer socket  320 ,  322  and  324 . As illustrated in  FIG. 60 , the prongs are generally frustum shaped with a flat surface facing the center socket  318 . 
   The stone setting steps for the trillion shaped mounting  310  are illustrated in  FIGS. 61 through 63 . The first step in the process is to mount the outer stones in the small sockets. A small stone  358 ,  360  and  362  is respectively mounted in an outer socket  320 ,  322  and  324  so that the pavilion of each small stone is placed within a respective outer socket and a portion of the girdle of each small stone is placed within lower groove  382  and is partially retained in a socket by the groove  382 . The outer stones are also respectively retained by a pair of prongs. Prongs  354  and  344  partially retain outer stone  358 . Prongs  346  and  348  partially retain stone  360 . Prongs  350  and  352  partially retain outer stone  362 . 
   The next step in the process is to place the center stone  356  which is slightly bigger than the outer small stones  358 ,  360  and  362 , into the center socket  318 , so that its pavilion is placed into the socket  318 . The center stone  356  is held by the six prongs  344 ,  346 ,  348 ,  350 ,  352  and  354  holding the girdle of the center stone  356 . 
   While the setting process has been described as setting the small outer stones  358 ,  360 , and  362  first and then setting the center stone  356 , it will be appreciated that it is also within the spirit and scope of the present invention to reverse the process and set the center stone  356  first and then set the small outer stones  358 ,  360 , and  362 . 
   As illustrated in  FIGS. 62 and 63 , the outer stones  358 ,  360  and  362  are at a level below center stone  356  and the center stone partially overlaps each other stone. 
   The final step in the process is to set the intermediate stones. Each intermediate stone  370 ,  372  and  374  is respective placed into an intermediate socket  332 ,  334  and  336  so that its pavilion is placed into a socket and a portion of its girdle extends into and is partially retained by upper groove  384  and each intermediate stone is also respectively partially retained by a pair of prongs. As illustrated in  FIG. 63 , prongs  344  and  346  partially retain larger stone  370 , prongs  348  and  350  partially retain intermediate stone  372 , and prongs  352  and  354  partially retain intermediate stone  374 . The intermediate stones are above the outer stones and the center stone and are at the highest level in the setting. 
   In addition, each intermediate stone partially covers and retains a pair of adjacent smaller outer stones. As illustrated in  FIG. 63 , in this manner intermediate stone  370  partially covers and thereby partially retains smaller outer stones  358  and  360 . Intermediate stone  372  partially covers and thereby partially retains smaller outer stones  360  and  362 . Intermediate stone  374  partially covers and thereby partially retains smaller outer stones  362  and  358 . Each intermediate stone also partially overlaps center stone  356  and helps to retain it. 
   Referring to the cross sectional view of  FIG. 64 , it can be seen that the smaller outer stones  358 ,  360  and  362  are at the lowest level and are partially retained by channel or groove  382  in the interior surface  316  of outer wall  312  and at the same time are held by a pair of prongs and also partially covered and retained by an intermediate stone and the center stone, the center stone  356  is at the next level and is retained by six prongs, and intermediate stones  370 ,  372  and  374  are partially retained by a groove or channel  384  in the interior surface  316  of outer wall  312  and also partially retained by a pair of prongs. Each intermediate stone partially overlaps center stone  356  and also overlaps a pair of outer stones, thereby helping to retain these stones. 
   The final finished setting for a trillion mounting  310  is illustrated in  FIGS. 65 ,  66  and  67 . 
   Referring to  FIGS. 68 through 70 , there are illustrated various dimensions for a 0.50 carat model trillion setting. It will be appreciated that these dimensions are provided for illustration only and not limitation and other dimensions are within the spirit and scope of the present invention Referring to  FIG. 68 , the length L 4  of the trillion mounting  310  can be 9.50 millimeters, and the wall thickness TH 4  can be 0.9 millimeters Referring to  FIG. 69 , the overall height H 4  of the trillion shaped mounting  310  can be 3.85 millimeters and the height HB 4  from the base  311  to the top of the mounting can be 3.55 millimeters. With respect to the prongs, the width or thickness PRT 4  of the top can be 0.45 millimeters and the width or thickness PRB 4  of the bottom can be 0.55 millimeters. The prongs are generally frustum shaped but in this design have a flat surface facing the center stone. Referring to  FIG. 70 , the depth of the girdle on the intermediate stones penetrating into the channel  384  designated as INT  4  can be 0.2 millimeters and the amount of the overlap O 4  of each intermediate stone over the center stone  356  can be 0.15 millimeters. 
   In one use the trillion shaped mounting  310  with the multiplicity of stones set as previously described can be used in a pendant as illustrated in  FIGS. 71 through 73  where a portion of the exterior surface  314  of outer wall  312  is fastened to a ring  386  which in is connected to a sleeve  388  which can be worn on a chain. In another use, referring to  FIGS. 74 through 76 , a bezel  398  which contains an outer wall  390  having a multiplicity of stones  392  retained by two adjacent pairs of prongs  394  and  396  can be used to further embellish the trillion shaped mounting  310 . 
   For each stone which has been mounted in each type of setting as discussed above, each stone has a pavilion, a girdle, and a facet. Referring by way of example to  FIG. 7 , the pavilion of the intermediate stone  76  is shown at  500 , the girdle of the intermediate stone is shown at  510 , and the crown of the intermediate stone is shown at  520 . For each setting technique, when a stone is placed in a socket, it is the pavilion of the stone that is placed in a socket. For each stone which is held by at least one prong, the prong retains the stone at the location of the girdle. When a portion of a stone is placed into either a lower channel in the exterior wall or an upper channel in the exterior wall, it is the girdle of the stone that is placed into the channel. When a stone is partially overlapped by another stone, it is the facet of the lower stone which is overlapped by a portion of the pavilion of the higher stone. 
   Defined in detail, the first embodiment of the present invention is a technique for setting precious stones in an oval shaped mounting comprising: (a) starting with an oval shaped mounting having an oval shaped exterior wall including an interior surface and a floor with a multiplicity of sockets therein including a center socket, a multiplicity of outer sockets and a multiplicity of intermediate sockets, wherein a portion of each outer socket extends into a lower channel in the interior surface of the outer wall and a portion of each intermediate socket is adjacent the interior surface of the outer wall, the outer sockets being positioned below the intermediate sockets with each outer socket positioned between two intermediate sockets and each intermediate socket positioned between two outer sockets, and a multiplicity of frustum shaped prongs positioned around the center socket; (b) positioning a center stone having a pavilion and a girdle in the center socket so that the pavilion is placed in the center socket and the multiplicity of frustum shaped prongs hold the center stone by its girdle; (c) positioning a multiplicity of outer stones each having a pavilion and a girdle in the outer sockets so that a respective outer stone is placed in a respective outer socket such that its pavilion is placed in the socket and a portion of its girdle is placed into and partially retained by the lower channel in the interior surface of the outer wall; and (d) positioning a multiplicity of intermediate stones each having a pavilion and a girdle in the intermediate sockets so that a respective intermediate stone is placed in a respective intermediate socket such that its pavilion is placed in the socket and a portion of its girdle is placed into and retained by an upper channel in the interior surface of the outer wall, each intermediate stone also partially retained by a pair of frustum shaped prongs such that each intermediate stone partially overlaps the center stone and also partially overlaps a pair of outer stones to thereby partially retain a pair of outer stones. 
   Defined more broadly, the first embodiment of the present invention is a technique for setting precious stones in an oval shaped mounting comprising: (a) starting with an oval shaped mounting having an oval shaped exterior wall including an interior surface and a floor with a multiplicity of sockets therein including a center socket, a multiplicity of outer sockets and a multiplicity of intermediate sockets, with each outer socket positioned between two intermediate sockets and each intermediate socket positioned between two outer sockets, a multiplicity of prongs positioned around the center socket, the interior surface of the outer wall having a lower channel and an upper channel; (b) positioning a center stone having a pavilion and a girdle in the center socket so that the pavilion is placed in the center socket and the multiplicity of prongs hold the center stone by its girdle; (c) positioning a multiplicity of outer stones each having a pavilion and a girdle in the outer sockets so that a respective outer stone is placed in a respective outer socket such that its pavilion is placed in the socket and a portion of its girdle is placed into and partially retained by the lower channel in the interior surface of the outer wall; and (d) positioning a multiplicity of intermediate stones each having a pavilion and a girdle in the intermediate sockets so that a respective intermediate stone is placed in a respective intermediate socket such that its pavilion is placed in the socket and a portion of its girdle is placed into and retained by the upper channel in the interior surface of the outer wall, each intermediate stone also partially retained by a pair of prongs such that each intermediate stone partially overlaps the center stone and also partially overlaps a pair of outer stones to thereby partially retain a pair of outer stones. 
   Defined in detail, the second embodiment of the present invention is a technique for setting precious stones in a round shaped mounting comprising: (a) starting with a round shaped mounting having a round shaped exterior wall including an interior surface and a floor with a multiplicity of sockets therein including a center socket, a multiplicity of outer sockets and a multiplicity of intermediate sockets, wherein a portion of each outer socket extends into a lower channel in the interior surface of the outer wall and a portion of each intermediate socket is adjacent the interior surface of the outer wall, the outer sockets being positioned below the intermediate sockets with each outer socket positioned between two intermediate sockets and each intermediate socket positioned between two outer sockets, and a multiplicity of frustum shaped prongs positioned around the center socket; (b) positioning a center stone having a pavilion and a girdle in the center socket so that the pavilion is placed in the center socket and the multiplicity of frustum shaped prongs hold the center stone by its girdle; (c) positioning a multiplicity of outer stones each having a pavilion and a girdle in the outer sockets so that a respective outer stone is placed in a respective outer socket such that its pavilion is placed in the socket and a portion of its girdle is placed into and partially retained by the lower channel in the interior surface of the outer wall, each outer stone also partially retained by a frustum shaped prong; and (d) positioning a multiplicity of intermediate stones each having a pavilion and a girdle in the intermediate sockets so that a respective intermediate stone is placed in a respective intermediate socket such that its pavilion is placed in the socket and a portion of its girdle is placed into and retained by an upper channel in the interior surface of the outer wall, each intermediate stone also partially retained by a pair of frustum shaped prongs such that each intermediate stone partially overlaps the center stone and also partially overlaps a pair of outer stones to thereby partially retain a pair of outer stones. 
   Defined more broadly, the second embodiment of present invention is a technique for setting precious stones in a round shaped mounting comprising: (a) starting with a round shaped mounting having a round shaped exterior wall including an interior surface and a floor with a multiplicity of sockets therein including a center socket, a multiplicity of outer sockets and a multiplicity of intermediate sockets, with each outer socket positioned between two intermediate sockets and each intermediate socket positioned between two outer sockets, a multiplicity of prongs positioned around the center socket, the interior surface of the outer wall having a lower channel and an upper channel; (b) positioning a center stone having a pavilion and a girdle in the center socket so that the pavilion is placed in the center socket and the multiplicity of prongs hold the center stone by its girdle; (c) positioning a multiplicity of outer stones each having a pavilion and a girdle in the outer sockets so that a respective outer stone is placed in a respective outer socket such that its pavilion is placed in the socket and a portion of its girdle is placed into and partially retained by the lower channel in the interior surface of the outer wall, each outer stone also partially retained by a prong; and (d) positioning a multiplicity of intermediate stones each having a pavilion and a girdle in the intermediate sockets so that a respective intermediate stone is placed in a respective intermediate socket such that its pavilion is placed in the socket and a portion of its girdle is placed into and retained by the upper channel in the interior surface of the outer wall, each intermediate stone also retained by a pair of prongs such that each intermediate stone partially overlaps the center stone and also partially overlaps a pair of outer stones to thereby partially retain a pair of outer stones. 
   Defined in detail, the third embodiment of present invention is a technique for setting precious stones in a square shaped mounting comprising: (a) starting with a square shaped mounting having a square shaped exterior wall including an interior surface and a floor with a multiplicity of sockets therein including a center socket, a multiplicity of outer sockets and a multiplicity of intermediate sockets, wherein a portion of each outer socket extends into a lower channel in the interior surface of the outer wall and a portion of each intermediate socket is adjacent the interior surface of the outer wall, the outer sockets being positioned below the intermediate sockets with each outer socket positioned between two intermediate sockets and each intermediate socket positioned between two outer sockets, and a multiplicity of frustum shaped prongs positioned around the center socket; (b) positioning a multiplicity of outer stones each having a pavilion and a girdle in the outer sockets so that a respective outer stone is placed in a respective outer socket such that its pavilion is placed in the socket and a portion of its girdle is placed into and partially retained by the lower channel in the interior surface of the outer wall, each outer stone also partially retained by a pair of frustum shaped prongs; (c) positioning a center stone having a pavilion and a girdle in the center socket so that the pavilion is placed in the center socket and the multiplicity of frustum shaped prongs hold the center stone by its girdle; and (d) positioning a multiplicity of intermediate stones each having a pavilion and a girdle in the intermediate sockets so that a respective intermediate stone is placed in a respective intermediate socket such that its pavilion is placed in the socket and a portion of its girdle is placed into and retained by an upper channel in the interior surface of the outer wall, each intermediate stone also partially retained by a pair of frustum shaped prongs such that each intermediate stone partially overlaps the center stone and also partially overlaps a pair of outer stones to thereby partially retain a pair of outer stones. 
   Defined more broadly, the third embodiment of the present invention is a technique for setting precious stones in a square shaped mounting comprising: (a) starting with a square shaped mounting having a square shaped exterior wall including an interior surface and a floor with a multiplicity of sockets therein including a center socket, a multiplicity of outer sockets and a multiplicity of intermediate sockets, with each outer socket positioned between two intermediate sockets and each intermediate socket positioned between two outer sockets, a multiplicity of prongs positioned around the center socket, the interior surface of the outer wall having a lower channel and an upper channel; (b) positioning a multiplicity of outer stones each having a pavilion and a girdle in the outer sockets so that a respective outer stone is placed in a respective outer socket such that its pavilion is placed in the socket and a portion of its girdle is placed into and partially retained by the lower channel in the interior surface of the outer wall, each outer stone also partially retained by at least one prong; (c) positioning a center stone having a pavilion and a girdle in the center socket so that the pavilion is placed in the center socket and the multiplicity of prongs hold the center stone by its girdle; and (d) positioning a multiplicity of intermediate stones each having a pavilion and a girdle in the intermediate sockets so that a respective intermediate stone is placed in a respective intermediate socket such that its pavilion is placed in the socket and a portion of its girdle is placed into and retained by the upper channel in the interior surface of the outer wall, each intermediate stone also retained by a pair of prongs such that each intermediate stone partially overlaps the center stone and also partially overlaps a pair of outer stones to thereby partially retain a pair of outer stones. 
   Defined in detail, the fourth embodiment of the present invention is a technique for setting precious stones in a trillion shaped mounting comprising: (a) starting with a trillion shaped mounting having a trillion shaped exterior wall including an interior surface and a floor with a multiplicity of sockets therein including a center socket, a multiplicity of outer sockets and a multiplicity of intermediate sockets, wherein a portion of each outer socket extends into a lower channel in the interior surface of the outer wall and a portion of each intermediate socket is adjacent the interior surface of the outer wall, the outer sockets being positioned below the intermediate sockets with each outer socket positioned between two intermediate sockets and each intermediate socket positioned between two outer sockets, and a multiplicity of generally frustum shaped prongs with a flat longitudinal wall positioned around the center socket; (b) positioning a multiplicity of outer stones each having a pavilion and a girdle in the outer sockets so that a respective outer stone is placed in a respective outer socket such that its pavilion is placed in the socket and a portion of its girdle is placed into and partially retained by the lower channel in the interior surface of the outer wall, each outer stone also partially retained by a pair of frustum shaped prongs; (c) positioning a center stone having a pavilion and a girdle in the center socket so that the pavilion is placed in the center socket and the multiplicity of frustum shaped prongs hold the center stone by its girdle; and (d) positioning a multiplicity of intermediate stones each having a pavilion and a girdle in the intermediate sockets so that a respective intermediate stone is placed in a respective intermediate socket such that its pavilion is placed in the socket and a portion of its girdle is placed into and retained by an upper channel in the interior surface of the outer wall, each intermediate stone also partially retained by a pair of frustum shaped prongs such that each intermediate stone partially overlaps the center stone and also partially overlaps a pair of outer stones to thereby partially retain a pair of outer stones. 
   Defined more broadly, the fourth embodiment of present invention is a technique for setting precious stones in a trillion shaped mounting comprising: (a) starting with a trillion shaped mounting having a trillion shaped exterior wall including an interior surface and a floor with a multiplicity of sockets therein including a center socket, a multiplicity of outer sockets and a multiplicity of intermediate sockets, with each outer socket positioned between two intermediate sockets and each intermediate socket positioned between two outer sockets, a multiplicity of prongs positioned around the center socket, the interior surface of the outer wall having a lower channel and an upper channel; (b) positioning a multiplicity of outer stones each having a pavilion and a girdle in the outer sockets so that a respective outer stone is placed in a respective outer socket such that its pavilion is placed in the socket and a portion of its girdle is placed into and partially retained by the lower channel in the interior surface of the outer wall, each outer stone also partially retained by at least one prong; (c) positioning a center stone having a pavilion and a girdle in the center socket so that the pavilion is placed in the center socket and the multiplicity of prongs hold the center stone by its girdle; and (d) positioning a multiplicity of intermediate stones each having a pavilion and a girdle in the intermediate sockets so that a respective intermediate stone is placed in a respective intermediate socket such that its pavilion is placed in the socket and a portion of its girdle is placed into and retained by the upper channel in the interior surface of the outer wall, each intermediate stone also retained by a pair of prongs such that each intermediate stone partially overlaps the center stone and also partially overlaps a pair of outer stones to thereby partially retain a pair of outer stones. 
   Defined in general, the present invention is a technique for setting precious stones in a mounting comprising: (a) starting with a mounting having an exterior wall including an interior surface and a floor with a multiplicity of sockets therein including a center socket, a multiplicity of outer sockets and a multiplicity of intermediate sockets, with each outer socket positioned between two intermediate sockets and each intermediate socket positioned between two outer sockets, a multiplicity of prongs positioned around the center socket, the interior surface of the outer wall having a lower channel and an upper channel; (b) positioning a center stone having a pavilion and a girdle in the center socket so that the pavilion is placed in the center socket and the multiplicity of prongs hold the center stone by its girdle; (c) positioning a multiplicity of outer stones each having a pavilion and a girdle in the outer sockets so that a respective outer stone is placed in a respective outer socket such that its pavilion is placed in the socket and a portion of its girdle is placed into and partially retained by the lower channel in the interior surface of the outer wall; and (d) positioning a multiplicity of intermediate stones each having a pavilion and a girdle in the intermediate sockets so that a respective intermediate stone is placed in a respective intermediate socket such that its pavilion is placed in the socket and a portion of its girdle is placed into and retained by the upper channel in the interior surface of the outer wall, each intermediate stone also partially retained by a pair of prongs such that each intermediate stone partially overlaps the center stone and also partially overlaps a pair of outer stones to thereby partially retain a pair of outer stones. 
   Of course the present invention is not intended to be restricted to any particular form or arrangement, or any specific embodiment, or any specific use, disclosed herein, since the same may be modified in various particulars or relations without departing from the spirit or scope of the claimed invention hereinabove shown and described of which the apparatus or method shown is intended only for illustration and disclosure of an operative embodiment and not to show all of the various forms or modifications in which this invention might be embodied or operated.