Archive
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Production.
Stage Two. Moulds
There are many different approaches when it comes to making jewellery, from traditional silversmithing, wire wrapping, and the utilization of technologies such as casting.
The inhouse creation process is an amalgamation of these and more, combining the strength of traditional techniques with the dexterity of modern equipment.
After the initial design, vulcanised moulds are the premier solution for repeating a design in high volume.
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Production.
Stage Three. Waxing & Casting
Wax is poured into the rubber mould to create the shape that will be used to create the casting mould.
Multiple wax shapes are usually joined together to create a "tree" to allow for batches of casting.
The "tree" is then placed in a heatproof cylindrical container and filled with an "investment powder" mixture.
From here the container is sent to the oven, during the baking process the investment powder will harden and the wax will evaporate, leaving behind a cavity and mould suitable to pour molten metal into.
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Post Production.
Stage Four. Post Processing
The raw metal castings are harvested from the mould, they are removed from the tree but there is still excess metal that needs to be removed.
During this stage is where the primary quality control takes place, ensuring each piece has been cast flawlessly with no imperfections.
This is also when pieces are sized, hallmarked with their purity and the first stages of sanding occurs.
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Post Production.
Stage Five. Polishing and Finishing
This is where the pieces get their mirror finish - Starting from very low grit sanding instruments, working incrementally through each grade until arriving at a reflective finish before beginning to polish.
A secret Swedish polishing compound, ultra fine buffing wheels, and expert techniques all play their role in achieving a true mirror finish.
The type of mirror finish that makes you catch your reflection in your ring while you're eating your cereal and makes you think "wow, you're really really really ridiculously good looking, maybe you could do that for a career.
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Post Production.
Stage Six. Fulfilment & Shipment
This is my favourite part where I get to start packing away treasures.
A final quality control is performed paying attention to the smallest of details: How effortlessly the hinges open, the feel of it on, the functions of clasps. Everything is meticulously tested to ensure only the best makes it through.
Everything is weighed and sorted before being packaged securely and shipped. Where possible, reusable and recyclable protective packaging materials are utilized.
All orders ship from my workshop in Sydney. Now you know the journey.
For custom pieces and request please send all enquires to info@oliverthejeweller.com
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