Designing with CAD
Modern technology aids in design details and quality control in the form of 3D modeling. One of the many techniques in our design "toolbelt" we are proud to offer CAD designing capabilities at our workshop. The centerpiece of our workshop will always revolve around old-world craftsmanship and artistry, however adding CAD to our design offerings allows for easy and affordable design modifications, making it a powerful resource for creating your dream project.
What is CAD?
The acronym CAD stands for Computer-Aided Design. It is the use of computers to aid in the creation, modification, analysis, or optimization of a design concept. This allows us to fully realize a ring, necklace, or earring design in three dimensions before taking the expense and time of casting the final design in gold. Although it is far from our only resource and doesn’t come close to the art and skill of hand fabricating or hand finishing the details of the design, it has become a powerful tool to collaborate and visualize our client’s dream projects.
Benefits:
Speed- our CAD designer can build a model that is ready to present to our clients in a matter of days vs. a hand-drawn design or hand-built model that may take several sessions before presentation.
Accuracy- when you need precision calculations, CAD allows for precise mirroring, symmetry, and setting measurements.
Quality control from the beginning- Our designers can see what the finished piece will look like early on, which can help identify potential flaws and ensure the model is ready for production, and a lifetime of wear.
Client collaboration- Clients can work directly with our designers and view three-dimensional models to make changes before production.
What kind of projects do you use CAD with?
Our primary method for original design often starts with sketches, then more traditional artistry techniques like freehand wax carving or hand fabrication, followed by molding and casting. CAD comes into the picture when it is time to review the specifications of the design and most often to add or change the gemstone setting styles, sizes, and shapes. CAD also allows us to offer modifications to original design collections without incurring great costs. We love saying, “YES!” When a client asks, “Can you make your design, but change it to fit my pear-shaped diamond?” CAD allows us to quickly make those changes, ensure the final product will be up to our quality standards, and review the design and stone orientations with the client so we know they are 100% in love with their customized design.
Another incredible offering made possible with CAD is the ability to 3D print a wax or resin model of the final design that our clients can see in person and even try on with their stones placed in the settings. Are you the kind of person who struggles to visualize something without seeing it in person? You are not alone! We love knowing that our client has seen and even worn their custom design before it is cast in solid gold and they are 100% satisfied with the piece.
Thinking about creating your dream jewelry piece? Schedule a consultation today to learn more about the process and how CAD can help us design the perfect piece for you.