If you have ever wondered how we create custom jewelry right in our shop then you must read this. Really, we make it right here, from the initial design consultation until you have your one-of-a-kind treasure in your hand. I am going to walk you through that process so that you can feel confident during the process of creating your custom jewelry.
First we will meet with you to discuss design ideas, materials and budget. We will get to know you, the styles you are attracted to and from there we will create preliminary sketches to start developing your perfect piece. Next, a more detailed image or sketches will be provided along with price estimates. Don’t forget that if you have old gold we will either reuse it or trade you weight for weight bringing down the cost of materials for your project.
Drawings and Sketches from Scott’s Design Book
Next Scott will create your 3-D model in hard wax to be cast in metal using the Lost Wax Casting Process. This is an ancient technique that jewelers still use today. A portion of wax is cut to the correct width then shaped to the correct size. Next, the stones are laid out and pilot holes are drilled to set stones in. The hand carving of the piece continues using files and electrical rotary
3-D Wax Carved Models
tools slimming down the model to create the right proportions and angles. Accent stones are laid out and and channels are carved and the piece is fine-tuned to be an exact replica of the initial sketch. Once the stones are placed in the wax, you will be able to stop in and try it on! If any modifications need to be made, this would be the time to do it.
Now that you have approved your wax model a special plaster called Investment will be mixed up and poured into a flask that holds the wax model inside. The flask is then placed inside a vacuum
Pouring Investment into a Flask that Holds the Wax Model
to get rid of all the air bubbles and then we wait for several hours for the plaster to dry. Next, we take the dry plaster mold and place it in a burn-out kiln at a high enough temperature to burn the wax out of the mold leaving an empty cavity. Then a Centrifugal Casting Machine is used to inject your choice of metal into the mold. Watch the Video below to see this in action.
When the casting is finished the flask is then quenched in water allowing the plaster to be easily removed from the metal. The metal will have a rough dull finish at first but is refined and polished once stones are set and all final details are accomplished. Now we are ready to present to you your one-of-a-kind custom made jewelry.
Rough Metal Castings
What are you dreaming of having made? We will make your dream design come to life right here in our studio.
Refining and Stone Setting the Top of a Bracelet
Finished Custom Ring Design in 14K Yellow Gold and 14K White Gold with a Beautiful Brown Diamond and Brilliant White Diamonds.
