One of the most frequently asked PMC / Art clay questions we get asked is "can I use CZ's with my PMC or Art Clay design"

The advice we usually give is the following...

Prepare a seat that will provides enough metal/clay to surround the gem. Make a conical hole and remove clay from beneath the stone.
Set the gem in position and press it down until the table is below the surface of the work. Remember that the clay around and under the stone will be contracting and will squeeze the stone upward. To compensate, press the stone deeply into the clay.
Fire and air cool.

My question is does anybody have any other helpful hints, tips or techniques for setting or firing CZ's ?