How CAD Works for Jewellery and Jewellery Manufacturing: A Short Guide
CAD (Computer-Aided Design) plays a crucial role in modern jewellery design and manufacturing. It allows designers and manufacturers to create precise, customizable, and complex jewellery pieces efficiently.
1. Conceptualization and Design
Sketching: The process begins with initial sketches or ideas, either on paper or digitally.
3D Modeling: Using CAD software (like Rhino, MatrixGold, or JewelCAD), designers create a detailed 3D model of the jewellery piece. This includes every component—settings, stones, bands, and embellishments.
Customization: Sizes, shapes, textures, and engravings can be adjusted easily without starting over.
2. Visualization
Rendering: CAD software provides realistic renderings of the design, showing how the finished piece will look in metal and gemstones.
Virtual Prototyping: Designers can examine the piece from all angles, check ergonomics, and make adjustments before production.
3. Technical Specifications
Precision: CAD models give exact dimensions and tolerances, ensuring the piece fits perfectly, especially important for rings, clasps, and gemstones.
Assembly Details: For complex jewellery with multiple parts, CAD designs the assembly mechanism, durability, and articulation (e.g., hinges).
4. Manufacturing Preparation
File Export: The CAD model is converted into a format such as STL, which is compatible with manufacturing technologies.
3D Printing or CAM: The file can be used directly to 3D print wax or resin prototypes or sent to CNC machines to carve wax models or metal parts.
5. Prototyping and Casting
Wax/Stereo-lithography Printing: A physical model is created from CAD data, often by 3D printing.
Investment Casting: The wax or resin model is used to create molds in lost-wax casting processes. Molten metal is poured into the mold, forming the final piece.
6. Finishing
Post-casting, the jewellery is polished, stones are set, and any final customizations are made.
Benefits of Using CAD in Jewellery Manufacturing
Accuracy and Detail: Complex designs with fine details can be created and reproduced precisely.
Time Efficiency: Changes can be made quickly without redrawing designs.
Cost-effective Prototyping: Virtual prototypes reduce the need for multiple physical samples.
Customization: Easy personalization for bespoke jewellery.