3D model making is taking over a variety of industries, from architecture to medical facilities. However, one of the most exciting developments in the 3D printing world is the influx of designers creating 3D jewelry. No longer reserved for basic designs, individuals are now wearing beautifully crafted, stunning pieces that were designed especially for them and then produced with a 3D printer.
If you are curious about the hottest new jewelry trend, read on for the ultimate guide to 3D jewelry design.
How is 3D jewelry made?
To print anything in 3D, you have to layer the material you are using until it forms the item you want. This is true whether you are 3D printing an architectural model or jewelry. However, when it comes to jewelry, there are a variety of ways to make it depending on the materials you are using. For example, some printers work with wax, while others can print with filament, powder or liquid resin.
That being said, all 3D printers require a 3D file as this is what holds the necessary information about the piece that will be printed. In order to generate these files, you need to use special 3D modelling software. Once your file is created, the 3D printer will be able to start printing a physical object.
For example, one way to create 3D jewelry is to first print a 3D model out of wax and then encase the mold in a plaster-like substance called investment. This is then heated to an extreme temperature which creates an impression that can then be filled with a liquid metal to produce the piece of jewelry.
Another potential option is to use laser sintering. During this process, different powders are sintered together in layers, before going through post-processing to enhance the strength and colour. This ensures that these pieces are sturdier and more substantial than other traditional ways to make jewelry.
What are the benefits of 3D jewelry?
One of the most significant benefits of 3D printed jewelry is that it enables designers to work with shapes and patterns that would be impossible to use when creating with more traditional techniques. For this reason, jewelry designers are able to be more imaginative and push the boundaries of their creativity. This ensures that the pieces that are being designed are more unique than ever.
What is more, the consumer and the designer can be in complete control of the design process without having to involve manufacturers. And, as technology increases, the time and effort required to produce a piece has been dramatically reduced. These reasons combined mean that individuals can be directly involved in the process and that the resulting piece can be entirely customized and uniquely designed for the customer. Throughout the process, designers can show customers renders to get their feedback and ensure that the final product is exactly to their liking.
Finally, 3D printed jewelry is a lot more environmentally friendly than other jewelry making practices because it doesn’t require the usage of any additional materials other than what is needed for that specific piece. Designers can create one piece at a time for individual customers without having to worry about leftover stock.
What types of jewelry pieces are being 3D printed?
The beauty of 3D printing is that designers can print almost any piece of jewelry you want. It can be used for rings, bracelets, pendants and earrings. For example, you could have a ring printed with a cityscape of your locale or a gorgeous silver necklace with a floral design. Earrings are often bold, geometric shapes but you can also create 3D printed pendants with skulls, animals, lightning bolts and other designs.
Alternatively, you can also have beautiful yet minimal designs that are still unique to you. This is a fantastic option if you are looking for a personalized gift for someone (like cufflinks!). You can even utilize this process for an engagement ring. After all, there is nothing more romantic than something that has been designed specifically with the recipient in mind.
To sum it up, there is almost nothing that can’t be done when it comes to 3D printed jewelry. In most cases, the only limit is your imagination and your creativity. Luckily, even if you don’t personally have too much of that, you can work with someone who specializes in 3D jewelry design.
How can I have a piece of 3D jewelry?
If you want to add a piece of 3D jewelry to your collection, then it is highly recommended that you work with a professional 3D printing company who can design a customized piece for you. By working with professionals, you can be assured that your 3D jewelry is high-quality and created using the latest technology.
When looking for a firm to work with, make sure you are choosing one that specializes in producing intricate finished jewelry from their high-resolution 3D printers for jewelry making. This is crucial if you are going to have a quality piece that stands the test of time.
Before you select a 3D printing firm, make sure to look through their portfolio at examples of other pieces of 3D jewelry they have designed. As there are a variety of ways to make this type of product, you want to ensure their work is similar to what you have imagined.
Generally, when working with a 3D printing company, the first step will be to discuss your ideas with their experts who can then provide you with options based on your budget. Next, their jewelry experts will get to work and show you potential design options and concepts. Once you have agreed on the sketches, they will send you a high-resolution 3D rendering to ensure you are happy. After you give them the go-ahead, they will print your unique piece of 3D jewelry, and you can wear and treasure it for life.
Have you ever considered getting a piece of 3D jewelry? Why or why not? Share your thoughts and insights in the comments below.
AUTHOR BIO
Tiago Jeronimo is the Marketing Manager at Inoventive 3D Solutions, a full-service architectural scale model making company. Beginning with 2D and 3D architectural drawings, the company incorporates state-of-the-art SLA 3D printing to best construct your design. Inoventive 3D specializes in architectural models, including towers, corporate campuses, sites and educational models. They also specialize in stadiums, full-fledged city models and industrial models for trade shows.
