A hidden GEM in jewellery 3D Printing

The future in 3D

Stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing technology is the perfect partner for jewellery design and production. This process of manufacture provides the highest level of precision, detail and productivity, allowing the designer to create with no limits. For those looking to embrace a more innovative production cycle over more traditional methods SLA 3D printing is the key.

An accessible form of 3D printing, the DWS range of machines provide solutions to enter the digital arena at low cost with desktop convenient machines. At the other end of the scale stand alone machines offer increased productivity for manufacturers looking to upscale.

To complement their hardware offering, DWS have one of the largest ranges of printing materials available on the marketplace. They offer a range of wax based substances for use in ‘lost wax’ investment casting of precious metals. As well as ceramic based solutions for the direct production of jewellery pieces. All easily and efficiently swapped from one build to another.

How Does it work?

As one of the most popular 3D printing techniques in the world, additive manufacturing works by using high powered lasers to harden liquid resin that is contained in a reservoir, to create the desired 3D shape. In summary the process hardens liquid resin into solid plastic 3D models.

DWS machines are characterised by the unique ‘upside-down’ position of the 3D print platform and the laser which is located underneath the resin tank. The bed moves in and out of the resin reservoir building up the highly precise model layer by layer until completion. This means that the resin material is used efficiently and economically. In addition, the compact and clean nature of the build reservoir provides the user with the flexibility to swap material easily, with no mess or wastage.

Introducing IRIX

‘Irix’ – meaning digital stone, is a brand new material created by DWS. This digital stone replicates the main characteristics of naturally occurring materials that would traditionally be used in jewellery production. Thanks to this exciting development designers can now 3D print beautifully ornate and detailed designs in a range of colours. This material is available for use on the J Series of DWS 3D printers.

Francesca Gabrielli, a contemporary jewellery designer from Rome has 3D printed her bracelet designs in Irix. ‘Onda’ is inspired by the waves and ‘Rosaphina’ displays a texture of roses. Both bracelets capture sharp and precise detail characterised by the 3D printing process. The choice of material colour complements the design and texture.

3D printing jewellery allows for the realisation of any design or pattern, giving the designer freedom of creativity and expression. This is often perfect for bespoke or individually commissioned pieces.