Creating and Designing

The first step is an idea...

A simple sketch of a design starts the creative process. The design here is for an engagement - wedding ring set.

The idea takes shape...

Here is the proposed ring in the wax form. Different types of wax are used in creating an original. The wax is chosen by how well it will work up into the desired design.

The idea becomes reality...

The finished design is cast in 14k yellow gold and set with a marquis cut diamond and complimented by smaller round diamonds.

How it is made

The work bench...

My grandfather worked at this bench and it became mine when I purchased the store I worked for.

The Process

Here a horse head ring wax set with a black star sapphire will make it's journey from wax to 14k gold. It is sitting on a special ring mandel that is tapered to replicate different finger sizes.

The Sprue

The wax tube protruding from the ring shank is known as the sprue. It's function is to let the wax escape during the burnout and to allow the moulten metal into the image.

Attachment

With a hot needle the wax is attached to a rubber base that will support the flask which in turn will hold the investment.

Investing

The flask is in place and the investment, much like plaster, is poured into the flask. It will then be left to harden as it drys around the wax.

Burnout

The rubber base is removed once the investment has set. The flask is then place into a kiln. The temperature will be raised to allow for complete evaporation of the wax. Hence the name for this type of jewelry making known as 'lost wax'. Once the burnout is finished, the heat is lowered to a casting temperature of approximately 900 degrees.

The Cast

Using tongs and protective gloves, the hot flask is place on the cradle of the centirfuge. This unit has an electrically controlled melting crucible. This melts the metal to be used. When in place the armature is wond manually. The release spins the liquid metal into the cavity left by the wax impression.

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