See how innovative jeweler Vowsmith is using wax 3D printing to create and cast unique, high-quality wedding bands.
The Role of 3D Printing in Jewelry Making
Traditionally, jewelry making has been a manual, time-intensive process. Lost-wax, or investment, casting has existed for close to six thousand years. While the artform can produce excellent results, mistakes can be costly.
Digital design, and 3D printing have disrupted the old practices. The new techniques allow for truly personalized jewelry and increase the reliability and repeatability of the creative process.
Jewelers are now able to use CAD software to create digital designs. These designs can then be printed directly into a castable plastic or wax pattern. Once the pattern is in hand, the traditional investment casting process can be used to produce an intricate final product.
Vowsmith is a great example of what is possible. They enable their customers to personalize fine jewelry on their website. The customized digital file is then used to 3d print a wax pattern. The customer doesn't have to visit the jeweler. The entire process can be completed online. The time from concept to castable pattern is dramatically faster than what was previously possible. It allows Vowsmith to meet tough deadlines and to offer impeccable customer service.
3D printed casting patterns created in MJP wax material
3D Printing Enables Creativity In Jewelry Design
Uptown Diamond decided to incorporate 3D printing into its workflow because the company wanted to both speed up its manufacturing process and ensure a quality product. Cost cutting was also a large consideration. Rick Antona, the owner of Uptown Diamond, selected the ProJet MJP printer, intended for 100% RealWax microcasting and his business has steadily taken off from there.
With its ProJet, Uptown Diamond is able to print as many as 50 unique wax designs in ten hours. Alternatively, the company can print a single wax pattern in just two hours, which means that it now has the capability to cut and cast waxes for its customers in the same day.
Because there are no limitations to possible geometries, 3D printing has enabled creative experimentation in design. Uptown Diamond has had the opportunity to take on immensely intricate and personalized projects, including an engagement ring mimicking R2D2 for a pair of Star Wars lovers.
Uptown Diamond Custom R2-D2 Wedding Ring
"We used to have to turn down fun and crazy requests, which was really frustrating. Now it’s not a problem. We never have to say no anymore."—Alberto Chavez, Uptown Diamond Graphic Designer