This initial step involves discussing your vision, preferences, and requirements for the custom ring. You can share inspiration, such as pictures or sketches, and specify details like metal type, gemstones, and ring size. At Satinski, we also offer options for custom engraving at this stage.

Based on the consultation, the Satinski designer will create detailed sketches or digital renderings of the ring design. This step may go through several iterations to ensure the final design aligns with your expectations.

At Satinski, we use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create a 3D model of the ring. This model can then be used to produce a wax prototype, which gives a tangible idea of the ring's shape and details. This step allows for any necessary adjustments before the final ring is crafted.

Once the design is finalized, the ring goes through the casting process. The wax model is encased in a plaster-like material, which is heated to melt away the wax, leaving a hollow mold. Molten metal is then poured into this mold to form the ring's basic shape. Here's a more detailed look into the casting process:

1. Preparation of the Master Model

The first step in casting is to create a master model of the jewelry piece, which is often done using wax or a similar material. This model represents the exact size and shape of the final metal piece. It can be hand-carved by skilled artisans or created using 3D printing technology, depending on the complexity and precision required for the design.

2. Making the Mold

Once the master model is ready, it's used to create a mold, which will be the negative form of the final jewelry piece. There are different types of molds, but one common method involves surrounding the wax model with a flask and then filling it with a plaster-like substance known as investment. Once the investment hardens, it forms a solid mold around the wax model.

3. Wax Removal

The next step is to remove the wax from the investment mold, leaving behind a cavity in the shape of the jewelry design. This is typically done through a process called "burnout," where the mold is placed in a hot oven. The heat causes the wax to melt and drain away, or in some cases, vaporize, ensuring that the cavity accurately reflects the desired shape.

4. Metal Melting and Pouring

With the wax removed, the next step involves melting the metal that will form the jewelry. The metal, whether it's gold, silver, platinum, or another alloy, is heated in a crucible until it reaches a liquid state. The molten metal is then carefully poured into the cavity of the investment mold. This can be done by gravity or with the assistance of centrifugal or vacuum casting machines, which help ensure the metal fills every part of the mold.

5. Cooling and Removal

After the metal has been poured, it's allowed to cool and solidify within the mold. Once cooled, the investment material is broken away to reveal the metal piece. At this stage, the piece is called a "casting."

6. Cleaning and Finishing

The casting then undergoes a cleaning process to remove any remaining investment material and to smooth out any imperfections. This may involve cutting off excess metal, known as sprues (the channels through which the molten metal was poured), and polishing the piece to achieve the desired finish.

7. Quality Inspection

Finally, the casting is inspected for quality. This includes checking the detail, ensuring there are no defects, and verifying that it matches the original design specifications.

Casting is a blend of ancient technique and modern technology, allowing jewelers to produce detailed and complex jewelry pieces with precision and efficiency. It's a crucial step in the creation of custom and mass-produced jewelry alike, providing endless possibilities for design and creativity.

After casting, the ring is cleaned to remove any imperfections from the molding process. It's then polished to achieve the desired finish, whether that's a high shine, matte, or textured effect.

If the design includes gemstones, this is the step where they are carefully set into the ring. The Satinski setter ensures that each stone is securely placed and aligned according to the design specifications. Here's an overview of some common stone setting methods and key aspects of the process:

1. Prong Setting

Perhaps the most well-known method, prong setting involves the use of metal claws or prongs that grip the stone tightly in place. It's widely used for solitaire rings as it allows maximum light exposure to the stone, enhancing its brilliance. The prongs can be rounded, flat, pointed, or V-shaped, and the number of prongs varies depending on the stone's size and shape.

2. Bezel Setting

In a bezel setting, a metal rim encircles the perimeter of the stone, either partially (half bezel) or completely (full bezel). This method is one of the oldest and most secure settings, protecting the stone's edges from chips and knocks. Bezel settings can also make a stone appear larger and can be used to give the piece a modern or vintage look, depending on the design.

3. Pavé Setting

Pavé (pronounced "pa-vay") setting involves setting small stones very close together, so that the piece appears to be paved with gemstones. Tiny beads or prongs of metal are used to hold the stones in place. This technique creates a dazzling, glittering effect and is often used in bands or as accents around a larger central stone.

4. Channel Setting

Channel setting features stones that are set between two parallel metal channels. There are no prongs holding the stones, which creates a sleek, smooth appearance. This setting is often used for wedding bands or as side stones in engagement rings.

5. Invisible Setting

Invisible setting is a complex technique where stones are fitted into a metal framework below the surface, so that no metal is visible between the stones. This setting creates the illusion of a continuous surface of stones and requires precise calibration and cutting of the stones.

6. Tension Setting

Tension setting is a modern method where the stone is held in place by the pressure of the band’s metal, which is designed to “squeeze” the stone. This setting allows light to enter the stone from all sides, maximizing its brilliance. However, it requires strong metal and precise engineering to ensure the stone’s security.

Process and Considerations

• Preparation: The jeweler needs to carefully prepare both the stones and the setting, ensuring that each stone will fit snugly and securely in its designated spot.
• Precision: Stone setting requires a high degree of precision and skill, as the settings must be adjusted and crafted to hold the stones firmly without damaging them.
• Finishing Touches: After setting, the piece undergoes finishing touches, which may include cleaning, polishing, and a final inspection to ensure the stones are secure and the jewelry meets quality standards.

Stone setting is an art that combines technical skill with creative design. The choice of setting not only affects the jewelry's look but also its wearability and durability, making it a critical phase in the creation of any piece adorned with gemstones.

If the ring features custom engraving, it's typically done at this stage. After engraving, the ring undergoes a final polish to ensure it looks perfect.

Types of Engraving

Hand Engraving

Hand engraving is an ancient art performed by skilled artisans who use hand tools, such as gravers or burins, to cut designs directly into the material. This method allows for a high degree of detail and can produce intricate patterns and deeply personal inscriptions. The technique requires significant skill and time, making it more expensive than machine engraving but highly valued for its artistry and the unique character it imparts to each piece.

Machine Engraving

Machine engraving uses mechanized equipment to etch designs onto a surface. It can be faster and more consistent than hand engraving, making it suitable for producing multiple pieces with the same design. Machine engraving can vary from simple monograms to complex patterns and is often used for serial numbers, dates, or standardized designs.

Laser Engraving

Laser engraving is a modern technique that uses laser beams to vaporize material, creating precise and clean engravings. It's extremely versatile, allowing for a wide range of designs, including fine text and complex images, on various materials such as metal, glass, plastic, and wood. Laser engraving can achieve high levels of detail and consistency, making it popular for both personalization and industrial applications.

Considerations for Engraving

• Material: The type of material can greatly influence the choice of engraving method. Some materials, like soft metals (gold, silver) and wood, are ideal for hand engraving, while harder materials might require laser engraving for precision.
• Design Complexity: The complexity of the design also affects the method of engraving. Simple text or basic designs can be easily achieved with machine engraving, while intricate patterns or detailed images might necessitate laser engraving.
• Durability: Engraving depth and technique impact the durability of the inscription. Hand and laser engraving, which can create deeper cuts, tend to be more durable than shallow machine engravings.
• Aesthetics: The desired aesthetic outcome is also an important consideration. Hand engraving offers a timeless, artisanal look, while laser engraving provides a modern, precise appearance.

Uses of Engraving in Jewelry

Engraving adds sentimental value to jewelry pieces, making them ideal for commemorating special occasions, expressing love or friendship, or carrying personal or motivational messages. Rings, pendants, bracelets, and watches are commonly engraved with initials, dates, quotes, or symbols that hold personal significance to the wearer or recipient.

Engraving transforms a beautiful piece of jewelry into a personal narrative or a token of memory, encapsulating moments and messages that can be treasured for generations. Its versatility and the emotional depth it adds make engraving a beloved choice for personalizing jewelry and gifts.

The completed ring is thoroughly inspected to ensure it meets all quality standards and the specific requirements discussed during the consultation. Once approved, it's ready for delivery to you. 99.99% of all deliveries take around 2 - 5 business days.