Is there a way I can half drill or full drill Click image for larger version.  Name: rough-300x175.jpg  Views: 23  Size: 11.7 KB  ID: 8913lumps of rough ruby and amethyst so they can take a post for setting, rather than having to construct some sort of collet or other setting? These are lumps about the size of fingernails which are destined for earrings with (of course) pearl drops underneath.
I had a bit of a rush of blood and bought them last march in Hong Kong - sorting through washing up bowls of small rough lumps to the amusement of the stand staff who said 'we usually sell by kilo weight, not selection' as I ended up with two piece of ruby.
The plan is hook ear wire + ruby + big drop pearl