Jewellery Manufacturing Process

Jewellery has always been much more than just an accessory. It is respected as a symbol of love, heritage, celebration, and personal style. Not only that, every jewellery you witness comes with a wonderful story and history behind it. 

At Dew Diamonds, we believe in blending traditional craftsmanship with modern technology. This helps us create jewellery that not only looks stunning. But, our jewellery also tells a story.

In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the jewellery making process step by step. We will discuss the very first design sketch to the final certified masterpiece. Are you curious about how your diamond engagement ring came to life? Or are you exploring custom jewellery options? In any case, understanding the jewellery manufacturing process will give you a new appreciation for the artistry behind every piece.

How the Jewellery Manufacturing Process Works?

Jewellery manufacturing process is a process that combines creativity, technology and craftsmanship. Of course, the methods of jewellery making have consistently evolved over the years, but the overall technology or technique remains the same. 

The jewellery making process typically involves the following sub-processes –

• Designing
• CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Manufacturing)
• Model Making
• Rubber Mould Creation
• Wax Tree Formation
• Casting
• Grinding, Filing, and Pre-Polishing
• Stone Setting (Diamond and Metal)
• Final Polishing
• Rhodium Plating
• Quality Control
• Hallmarking and Certification

Jewellery Manufacturing Process Step by Step

Let us now compare each of the steps  involved in the jewellery-making process and find what type of transformations happen at every step –

Designing 

That is where everything begins. The jewellery starts with an idea. The designers may draw inspiration from a shape that they come across, a cultural symbol, or even from customers’ preferences.

This stage involves rough sketches or detailed design drafts. In the case of custom designs, designers can sit with the customers to capture their vision. In essence, this is the manual design phase which further moves into the precise designing stage. 

CAD/CAM: Precision Through Technology

The next stage in jewellery making involves the technology steps that bring the idea into reality. The sketch is transformed into a 3D model. This is done using advanced computer-aided design software. This allows designers and clients to view the piece from every angle. This makes sure that the  proportions, gemstone placements, and intricate details are accurate.

CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) then converts the digital file into a prototype using 3D printing or milling. This ensures precision that hand-drawing alone cannot achieve.

Model making 

Well, this is the very first physical form of the jewellery. The 3D printed model from the previous stage becomes the prototype for the first model. The models were traditionally carved out of wax by hand. 

However, today, we witness resin models created using 3D printers. This stage brings the jewellery from the abstract form to a physical form for the very first time in its life span. 

Rubber mold 

The next stage in jewellery making involves making a rubber model. A replica of the initial model is created using rubber. This mould acts as a flexible, reusable cast that allows jewellers to create multiple wax replicas of the same design. 

If the design is made for mass production, this stage assumes a lot of importance. The rubber model or mould is preserved and even made copies to serve as a reference. The best part of the rubber mould lies in the fact that they are safer and durable. 

Waxing or wax tree

From the rubber mould that was created in the previous stage, wax replicas are further created. These wax pieces are attached to the central stem.

The structure is subsequently called a wax tree. This is an important structure in jewellery making. The step lets you create or make multiple jewellery pieces together by casting them at a time. In fact, this step is highly essential for improving efficiency in the jewellery making process. 

Casting 

This process involves casting the jewellery using the exact material that the jewellery would be made of. The wax tree prepared in the above step is placed inside a flask, which is then filled with plaster like material. 

Once it is hardened, the flask is heated in a furnace. This will melt the wax away and leave behind the cavity exactly in the shape of the actual jewellery design. Molten metal is then poured into the cavity. These metals include gold, silver, platinum, or other alloys. Once cooled, the plaster is broken away to reveal the raw cast jewellery. This is a magical moment in the jewellery manufacturing process. This is exactly where vision transforms into precious metal.

Grinding, filing and pre-polishing

After casting, the jewellery would always have rough surfaces or extra metal marks. In the next stage, skilled artisans check every part in finer detail and grind or file it. 

The step involves making sure that the jewellery is in optimum shape and design. Pre-polishing is done to enhance shine and prepare surfaces for stone setting.

Diamond setting

If the jewellery features diamond, pearl or any other stones, this setting stage can be extremely delicate. Using sophisticated microscopes and fine tools, artisans insert and fix the stones into their designated places. 

Precision is key here. Each stone must be perfectly aligned and tightly set to ensure durability and brilliance. Artisans use different setting options as per the design. Some of these settings are prong setting, bezel setting, pavé, and channel setting. The choice depends on both the design and the gemstone’s cut.

Metal setting 

Metal setting involves adding smaller and decorative components to the jewellery. It also involves adding a few structural details to the jewellery. 

This stage is also quite important because it enhances the overall integrity of the jewellery, its design and completeness. It would also decide the suitability of the gemstone fitting. 

Polishing

Polishing the jewellery involves giving it a perfect shine to the jewellery. Once the stones and other elements have been set, the jewellery goes through the final polishing. This can involve a close look at the jewellery. 

Multiple polishing wheels and compounds are used to bring out a mirror-like shine. This stage transforms raw metal into a gleaming surface. This further enhances the jewellery’s elegance.

Rhodium plating 

If it is a white gold jewellery, it goes through rhodium plating. This is done to increase the look and change the colour tone of the jewellery. 

In this process, a thin layer of rhodium (a platinum-group metal) is applied to the surface. This not only adds brilliance and lustre but also provides resistance against scratches and tarnishing.

Quality control 

Quality control or quality checks form the very essence of a brand identity. The process checks each of the jewellery for any sort of manufacturing, structural or any other sort of defect. 

At Dew Diamonds, no piece leaves our workshop without rigorous quality checks. Artisans examine the jewellery under magnification. They check the  stone security, finish quality, and overall craftsmanship. Every detail is inspected to ensure the piece meets international standards.

Hallmarking 

Hallmarking involves assessing the purity and quality of the metal used in making the jewellery. In essence, it can be called an official process of certifying the purity of precious metals. 

It assures customers that the jewellery contains the promised level of gold, silver, or platinum. In many countries, hallmarking is legally required for consumer protection.

Certification 

For the jewellery that involves the use of diamonds and gemstones, the certification is a process. It helps add an additional layer of trust and security. These certifications are issued by authorised testing labs. 

Reputed laboratories such as GIA or IGI evaluate diamonds for cut, clarity, color, and carat. Certification assures customers of the authenticity and quality of their jewellery investment.

FAQs

What is the process of making jewelry called?

The complete procedure is referred to as the jewellery making process or jewellery manufacturing process. It includes design, casting, setting, polishing, and finishing steps.

How long does it take to make a piece of jewellery?

The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the design. A simple ring may take 1–2 weeks. But, the intricate custom jewellery pieces can take 4–6 weeks or longer.

Can I customise my own jewellery design?

Absolutely. At Dew Diamonds, we specialise in custom creations. Clients can bring in sketches, ideas, or even inspirations. Our designers will transform them into unique, personalised masterpieces.

Conclusion

The jewellery making process is a journey that blends artistry with precision engineering. Check each stage from a spark of inspiration to the final certified jewel. It requires skill, patience, and dedication. At Dew Diamonds, we take pride in preserving the traditions of jewellery craftsmanship. Meanwhile, we embrace the latest technologies to deliver jewellery that reflects timeless beauty and trust.

When you wear a piece crafted through this intricate jewellery manufacturing process, you’re not just wearing metal and gemstones. You’re carrying a story, a legacy, and a touch of brilliance designed to last a lifetime.