Soldering AFTER setting a stone!!!???

[KarolinaMoon]

I am a complete beginner, and am currently taking silversmithing classes, I've been experimenting at home and have run into a bit of a problem!
I have set a hematite stone unto silver sheet (making a pendant), and want to add some more detail using silver sire to the actual pendant! Can I do this after I have set the stone...I would think it would damage the stone? Any advise would be great...!!!

Thanks!!

Cat

[Goldsmith]

Yes silver soldering will damage the stone, setting ideally should always be the last job before polishing. You could add decoration that is loose around the setting, held in place by using the same bail to hold it.

James