What is CAD in Jewellery?

Computer-Aided Design (CAD) enables jewellers to design precise, detailed, and editable jewellery models digitally. This improves accuracy, speeds up production, and reduces human error.

Benefits of CAD for Jewellers

• Perfect accuracy and symmetry

• Easy corrections and modifications

• Faster production workflow

• Ideal for complex designs

• Compatible with 3D printers & casting

Types of CAD Software

• MatrixGold – Advanced parametric jewellery design

• Rhino – Flexible modelling for custom jewellery

• JewelCAD – Popular for quick jewellery workflows

• ZBrush – High-detail sculpting for organic forms

• Blender – Powerful free modelling tool

CAD Best Practices

• Maintain correct wall thickness

• Ensure proper prong and stone seat depth

• Optimize edges for casting

• Export STL/3DM in correct resolution

• Double-check symmetry before printing

Overview of Jewellery 3D Printing

3D printing transforms digital CAD models into physical wax or resin patterns used for casting. It ensures precision and reduces manufacturing errors.

Types of Jewellery 3D Printers

• DLP Printers – High accuracy & speed (best for jewellery)

• LCD Printers – Affordable & efficient

• SLA Printers – Smooth surface finish

• CPX Printers – Specialized for castable models

Common Printing Issues & Fixes

• Layer shifting → Recalibrate Z-axis

• Supports falling off → Reduce exposure time

• Hollow models breaking → Increase wall thickness

• Print not sticking → Clean build plate, level platform

Tips for Perfect Castable Prints

• Use high-quality castable resin

• Follow correct burnout schedule

• Avoid trapped resin in hollow parts

• Keep printer clean and calibrated

What is Jewellery Casting?

Casting converts wax or resin patterns into gold or silver jewellery through investment and burnout processes.

Casting Workflow

1. CAD Design

2. 3D Printing

3. Treeing & Sprueing

4. Investment Powder Mixing

5. Burnout Cycle

6. Metal Melting

7. Casting

8. Polishing & Finishing

Wax vs Resin Casting

• Wax – Traditional, easier for beginners

• Resin – Higher detail, modern jewellery manufacturing prefers it

Common Casting Defects

• Air bubbles

• Incomplete cast

• Surface roughness

• Cracking of investment

How to Avoid Casting Problems

• Follow standard burnout timetable

• Keep resin models 100% clean

• Ensure proper investment mixing ratio

• Avoid moisture & humidity

3D Printer Maintenance Tips

• Clean the VAT after every print

• Filter resin regularly

• Keep LCD screen dust-free

• Check Z-axis lubrication

• Use fresh, high-quality resin

Polishing & Finishing Machines

Tools like tumblers, polishing motors, and ultrasonic cleaners help achieve professional finishing.

Laser Machines

Laser engravers and laser welders provide clean welding, sharp engraving, and minimal damage to stones.

Casting Machines

Vacuum and centrifugal casting machines improve metal flow and reduce porosity.