The Calico Process

Our team begins the production of your personal treasure. From growing a 3D model, through to casting, setting stones and finishing the piece.

The production stage is the part of the “Calico Process” where our Master Jewellers take over. The manufacturing of custom jewellery is an intricate process that requires skill, attention to detail, and a masterful understanding of numerous jewellery techniques. Outlined below are various methods used in creating a Calico Custom Ring.

Wax Carving or CAD design: Depending on the specific custom item we either hand carve a wax model of the ring design or use computer-aided design (CAD) software to assist us in creating the design and then craft a 3D resin model of the ring. This model will serve as the prototype for the rest of the fabrication process.

Metal Preparation: Before the metal is used for production it needs to be prepared. The jeweller will choose the appropriate metal alloy and add it to pure (24K) gold for the specific ring Karat and colour desired.

Sheet Metal Forming or Metal Casting: Depending on the specific custom project we will use precious metal sheet and/or wire to cut, bend and shape the metal into the desired form. - The Lost Wax method involves putting the model we create into an investment plaster cast which is hardened. The model is then burnt out, leaving a cavity in the cast. (The model is lost in the process.) Molten metal is then poured into the cavity.

Metal Finishing: Once the metal has cooled, the jeweller will remove it from the mold or sheet metal template and begin the finishing process. This typically involves tumbling, filing, sanding, and polishing the metal until it is smooth. If required the jeweller may also add texture or colour to the metal using abrasives, hand tools, acid baths or other chemical treatments.

Stone Setting: If the ring design includes diamonds and gemstones the setter will need to set them into the metal. This is a very intricate process that takes precision and patience. Setting can involve drilling small holes in the metal or using prongs or other types of settings, such as bezels, to hold the gemstones securely in place.

Final Polishing and Cleaning: Once the gemstones are set, -and any engraving or other personalization is complete, the jeweller will do a final polishing and cleaning of the ring to remove any dust, residue, or fingerprints to ensure that the ring is in pristine condition.

Overall, the production process is the most intensive part of creating any piece of jewellery. It is where the design takes shape, and the jewellery comes to life. Each piece is unique and requires us to utilize a different set of steps. Yet, this process will result in a stunning piece of jewellery that reflects your unique style and personality.

Production Steps: