Example of Our Process
Many times our clients are unaware of the entire jewelry making process from concept to final piece. Below is a step by step explanation representing the process we undertake when we develop a new piece for our collection or create a custom creation for a client.

Step 1: Graphic Design  -We come up with a hand drawn graphic design of the piece and scan it into our computer. We then manipulate the design in Photoshop software. In the case of a custom Logo piece we take a photo of the business card if  the digital graphics file is not available. The graphic to the left came from the client´s business card.

Step 2: Three Dimensional Design -We import the digital image into Matrix (our 3D modeling software) and within this software we create the jewelry piece in a three dimensional form. If we are designing a piece with various different metals we will have to design a component for each metal. For the Meadowgate buckle we had 4 different components to cast in 3 different metals  -a Sterling Silver back plate, a 14K Rose Gold animal, a 14K Yellow Gold rim and 14K Yellow Gold.

Step 3: Rendering in Various Metals -Within Matrix we also have the ability to render the final model in various metal combinations. The buckle rendering shows the buckle in its final form. This rendering was sent via e-mail to the client with pricing for his approval.

Step 4: Revo Milling -Once we receive client approval, we have a computer driven REVO mill that cuts the model or its components in wax. The mill is very precise and cuts the model within 4/1000th of an inch of what we have designed.  Now we have the four component parts of the buckle in wax and will begin the "lost wax" process of jewelry making.

Step 5: Lost Wax Casting -This is a multi step process that, if you are interested, is explained in detail at various places on the web.  I will shorten the definition to this -we surround the wax model with a plaster material and then fire it in our kiln to melt the wax, we replace the wax void with molten metal using our centrifuge and once the plaster is removed what was wax is now a precise copy in metal.

Step 6: Final Assembly and Finishing -Susan cleans and solders the various components together and we have any stones set by  aprofessional stone setter. Final polishing and inspection is completed before shipping. The final buckle is shown to the left.

Step 7: Written Accompaniments -many times we create poems or verses that are to accompany the piece.  In a very enjoyable way the poem explains the various symbolic meanings of the piece. See our Your Angel page for examples.

Hopefully we didn´t have a BOO-BOO along the way or we have to "Begin Again" as one of our jewelry pieces is so aptly named. 

Many times in the development of a piece we will go through several renditions before we settle on the final design -as we want to get the feel, weight and look to be just right !

When all goes smoothly the first time through, and we are in the "Flow", we feel truly blessed.  That energy surely is extended to the  person that enjoys the piece.