Jewellery Casting
How a model becomes metal through mould, investment and controlled casting.
What Casting Does
Casting is a manufacturing method used to reproduce a jewellery form in metal. A model – traditionally wax and now often resin or wax produced from CAD – is surrounded by investment material. The model is removed, leaving a cavity into which molten metal is cast.
The Main Stages
- Create or prepare the master/model
- Attach sprues to create metal flow paths
- Invest the model in a refractory material
- Burn out/remove the model to create a cavity
- Prepare and melt the correct alloy
- Cast metal into the mould
- Allow controlled cooling
- Break away investment and remove sprues
- Clean, assemble, set stones and finish
Casting Is Not the End of the Job
A rough casting normally needs significant bench work. Surfaces are cleaned, components may be soldered or laser welded, settings are prepared, stones are set and the piece is polished or textured.
Purity and Old Gold
Mixed old jewellery can contain solder and different alloys, so simply melting several pieces together can produce unpredictable fineness. Where hallmarking or exact purity matters, the starting metal must be controlled appropriately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is casting the same as 3D printing?
No. 3D printing can make a model used in the casting process; the final precious-metal piece is then cast and finished.
Can you cast my old gold?
Sometimes, but mixed jewellery and solder can affect final purity. We discuss the risks before agreeing the route.
Does casting leave a finished surface?
No. Castings require cleanup and finishing, and often setting/assembly work.
Ask Gold Factory If you would like help applying any of this information to a real piece of jewellery, visit us at 294 Farnham Road, Slough, SL1 4XL, call 01753 536800 or contact us through www.goldfactory.co.uk. Jewellery can vary, so our team can explain the options for the actual item you are considering. |
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