Custom Designs

The Custom Design Process

When only something unique will do, let The Source Fine Jewelers create something special for you or someone you love.  Our talented jewelers love working on one-of-a-kind pieces.  Even if you only have a glimmer of an idea, our experienced staff will work with you to bring that idea to life.  After discussions, the drawing of a design begins and your distinctive jewelry is on the way from being a dream to a reality.  We will be with you every step of the process.

CAD Drawing Versus Wax Carving

Depending on the specific piece, the custom process can begin with either a CAD drawing or a wax carving.

CAD Drawing

When we start with a CAD (computer aided design software) drawing, it will show you a remarkably lifelike rendering of what the finished piece will look like. It allows you to see exactly what you will get.  Once the CAD images have been approved we will make a wax model.

Wax Carving

Sometimes the custom design process starts with a wax carving instead of a CAD drawing.  In this case, the wax carving is based on early sketches and illustrations. The wax carving allows you to see your design in 3D.

We take a blank (a piece of wax) and begin to carve and shape it.  As the smoothing and shaving progresses, the design emerges.  At this time, the jeweler and customer take one last look at it before the casting process.

Rough Casting

These miniature wax sculptures are then embedded in plaster. The wax is covered in plaster to create an impression. The chosen metal is then melted and placed into the cavity, creating a rough cast of the final product.  It is not what you see in showcases, but all jewelry looks like this before our artisans begin work.

Clean Casting

Now this is starting to look more like it!  The jeweler has spent many hours cleaning and polishing the metal to get the right look.  Seats for any desired gemstones are drilled and attached, preparing for the final step of setting the chosen stones.

The Completed Piece

This is our favorite step.  We love seeing the happy faces of customers who have watched a seed of an idea blossom into their own, one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry that can be worn, enjoyed and proudly displayed.