How to install stone around metal chimney duct?

[Chen1261]

Hello,

I am attaching Georgia Pinelog stone to a framed in hearth with backer board over it. But I have my chimney going directly through the wall with a metal ring around it. I am contemplating attaching metal lath over the ring so that the stone and mortar have something to adhere to. The stove sits on top of a 1 1/4” granite slab which sits on top of concrete block all around the exterior as well as under the legs of the stove for full support. Plus there is at least 1” of block protruding underneath the granite to help support the stone, and more like 1 1/2”s . There is also about 1 3/4” to 2” of overhang of the slab to accommodate stone underneath it and along the block.

My questions are:
Do I need the lath?

If so, what do you suggest for attaching it to cover the backer board and the metal?

If so, should I start right at the granites edge and go to the very top, or is it sufficient to just go to the top of the ring?

PS. there is a slight taper at the top of the hearth if it is important in the process.

thanks for any help you can spare,
Etienne