Modern Manufacturing

Jewelry Manufacturing has seen countless innovations over its inception thousands of years ago.

Surprisingly many of the basic techniques used today have been around since the beginning.

The first thing that usually comes to mind when we think of jewelry is a ring. The most common technique used to manufacture a ring is that of "Lost Wax Casting" or investment casting. This basic process is used for the making of jewelry, statues and industrial parts alike. 

It all starts with an original wax model of the desired piece. The model is then encapsulated in a molding material such as plaster or similar with a small section attached to the model known as a "sprue". This sprue will create an opening in the mold. The mold with the model inside is placed in an industrial oven that allows the model to melt out and burn away. Once burned away the hot mold is placed in a casting machine. (photo right)

Under vacuum, molten metal is poured into the mold through the sprue opening to form an exact copy of the original wax model. Once the metal has cooled the mold is broken away to reveal the finished casting.

 Once the mold has been completely removed a master jeweler begins the final finishing and completion of the new piece of jewelry. Although many modern machines streamline the process along the way the basic principles of grinding, filing,  gemstone setting and polishing remains unchanged.

Another magical journey... from an unappealing blob of wax, to an enduring symbol of love!