Innovations and modern technologies applied to lost wax casting

La lost wax casting is one of the oldest artisan casting techniques in the world, used for thousands of years to give shape to the most precious metals. While this traditional method remains an essential pillar of the jewellery manufacturingIn recent years, the jewellery industry has undergone profound changes thanks to technological advances. Today, innovations in computer-aided design, 3D printing and digital simulation are redefining the standards of precision, speed and customisation in the world of technical jewellery.

This technological development enables jewellery designers to combine ancestral know-how with modern tools, to produce more complex, more durable pieces that are perfectly adapted to the expectations of today's market. From digital modelling of prototypes to optimised management of precious metals, every stage of the lost-wax casting process now benefits from strategic technological support.

In this article, we explore how modern technology is revolutionising this jewellery-making technique, bringing craftsmen, workshops and brands unrivalled precision and new creative opportunities.

 

The evolution of lost-wax casting thanks to modern innovations

Lost wax casting is a manufacturing technique that has stood the test of time, establishing itself as an essential process in the jewellery industry. Developed over 5,000 years ago, it enables exceptionally fine pieces to be created by moulding an initial wax model, which is then replaced by precious metal. This method is prized for its precision, flexibility and the ability to reproduce complex detailsThis is the case for both one-off pieces of jewellery and mass-produced items.

For a long time, lost-wax casting was based exclusively on traditional craftsmanship, but the rise of the modern technologies has transformed this practice. Today, it's 3D printing, robotisation and the use of new materials are revolutionising the process, offering speed, precision and reproducibility. Thanks to these innovations, jewellers can now reduce production costswhile guaranteeing consistent quality and pushing back the boundaries of design.

La lost wax and its innovation are at the heart of the development of modern jewellery techniques. Thanks to new jewellery materialsWith this new technology, designers can achieve unprecedented precision and quality.

The history of lost wax jewellery

The lost wax technique, which has been used for thousands of years, has revolutionised the art of jewellery making. Discover its fascinating history, from its ancient origins to its key role in modern jewellery design.

 

 

3D printing and digital modelling

• Computer-aided modelling software makes it possible to customise jewellery to the extreme. Coupled with digital jewellery cuttingThey guarantee faithful reproduction of the most complex designs.
• Craftsmen can also use the laser engraving of jewellery to provide precise finishes and create customised patterns.

Robotisation and process automation

• La robotisation of lost-wax casting optimises every stage of the process.
• Thanks to theautomated jewellery manufacturingThis makes it possible to achieve a higher production rate while maintaining a high level of craftsmanship.

The evolution of materials

• The refractory moulds for jewellery have evolved to withstand higher temperatures, ensuring that the metal melts more evenly.

Optimising quality control and finishing

• Thanks to 3D scanners and AI-assisted analyses, the quality control in jewellery is more rigorous and precise than ever.
• Le plating and e-coating jewellery provide a durable finish and protect creations from oxidation and wear over time.

In this article, we explore the major technological advances applied to lost-wax casting. We will see how 3D printing makes it easier to create ultra-precise modelshow the robotisation optimises the production processand finally, how new materials improve durability and environmental impact of this ancestral technique.

 

The impact of 3D printing on lost-wax casting in the jewellery industry

L'3D printing has radically transformed the lost-wax casting process for jewellery, offering new ways of considerable gains in precision, speed and flexibility. Thanks to technological advances, jewellers can now create wax or resin models with micrometric accuracyopening the way to bolder, more complex designs that were difficult to achieve using traditional methods.

Unrivalled precision for complex designs

One of the main advantages of 3D printing in jewellery manufacture is its ability to reproduce extremely fine detail. 3D printers with Stereolithography (SLA) and DLP (Digital Light Processing) can print wax or resin models with a resolution of up to 20 micronsThe precision of this technology is far superior to that of manual sculpting techniques.

Before the advent of 3D printing, creating wax models required meticulous work, often limited by tools and human dexterity. Today, thanks to computer-aided design (CAD) as RhinoGold, MatrixGold or ZBrushWith this technology, jewellers can design complex geometric shapes, with delicate internal structures and textures that are impossible to sculpt by hand.

Example Openwork rings stone mounts floating and filigree designs can be produced with extreme precision, guaranteeing perfect finishes after casting.

Reduced production costs and lead times

By removing time-consuming and costly craft stages3D printing enables jewellers to considerably reduce the production time for wax models. Where traditional sculpting could take several days, a high-resolution 3D printer is capable of producing several models in just a few hours.

• Time saving The ability to create several prototypes simultaneously means that production can be carried out quickly and efficiently.
• Reducing errors Unlike manual sculpting, 3D printing minimises human error and guarantees perfect symmetry in jewellery pieces.
• Less waste 3D printers use only the exact quantity of material needed, limiting waste of wax or resin.

Case studies In a jewellery company producing a series of rings, 3D printing can save up to 60 % of production time compared with traditional methods.

 

 

Greater flexibility for personalising jewellery

With the boom in the personalised, made-to-measure jewellery3D printing offers unprecedented flexibility for craftspeople. It is now possible to create parts 100 % single to specific customer requirements, without any additional production costs.

Instant customisation A customer may ask for a special engraving, a particular motif or an exclusive design. Thanks to 3D printing, the jeweller can modify the digital file in just a few clicks and quickly produce a prototype.
Test before final manufacture 3D printing allows us to offer customers a resin mock-up before the final casting, reducing the risk of dissatisfaction and design errors.
Flawless mass production CAD models ensure perfect reproducibility of the jewellery in a collection, guaranteeing impeccable alignment of the stones and consistent finishes.

Example A designer wishing to launch a collection of customisable rings with engraved initials can modify each design on CAD software and launch 3D printing without any additional cost for adapting the model.

3D printing has revolutionised lost-wax casting in jewelleryby bringing precision, speed and flexibility. Thanks to this technology, craftsmen can create bolder pieces, reduce production times and meet the growing demand for personalised jewellery. This breakthrough marks a decisive turning point in the jewellery sector, where technological innovation is now combined with craftsmanship to create exceptional pieces of jewellery.

 

 

Robotisation and process automation

Robotisation is transforming the jewellery sector, particularly in the area of lost wax casting. Technological advances now make it possible to automate several stages in the process, optimising the precision, productivity and profitability from jewellery manufacturers. Contrary to popular belief, these innovations are not intended to replace the work of craftsmen, but rather to facilitate certain repetitive tasks and improve production quality.

Automation of the key stages in the lost-wax casting process

Robots for wax injection and production of casting shafts

One of the first automated processes in jewellery casting was thewax injectionwhich enables models to be reproduced with great precision and perfect consistency.

• Wax injection machines This equipment guarantees even distribution of the wax, eliminating variations due to human error and reducing the rejection rate.
• Robotic arms for assembling casting shafts Specialised robots can automatically attach the wax models to the feeder rods, speeding up this essential stage in mass production.

Key benefit : The use of robots for assembly ensures a high level of efficiency. perfect repeatability models, which is crucial for large-scale jewellery collections.

Automated machines for ceramic coating and mould firing

Coating the wax shafts with a refractory ceramic coating is a critical step in ensuring high-precision moulding.

• Dipping and coating machines Automate the uniform application of the coating, reducing the risk of imperfections.
• Programmed ovens The ceramic shells: Optimised temperature rise to eliminate the wax and solidify the ceramic shell with millimetre precision.

Direct impact Perfectly controlled cooking improves mould strengthThis ensures a cleaner cast of the molten metal and minimises the rate of defects.

 Robot manipulators for casting and demoulding jewellery

Handling molten metal and demoulding are delicate and potentially dangerous stages.

• Robotic arms for casting Pour the liquid metal into the moulds with optimum precision, guaranteeing even distribution and avoiding human error.
• Automated demoulding and cleaning systems Once the jewellery has cooled, specialised robots remove the ceramic and polish the rough pieces before they are given their final finish.

💡 Results : High-quality jewellery with a improved dimensional accuracyand a reduction in risks associated with handling molten metal.

 

 

Advantages of robotisation in the jewellery industry

The integration of intelligent machines and robots in jewellery manufacturing offers a number of significant advantages:

Accuracy and repeatability: reducing human error

The robots work with a micrometric precisionThis ensures perfect consistency in every piece of jewellery produced. Unlike handcrafted techniques, where variations can occur from one piece to the next, robotisation guarantees a perfect finish. strictly identicalThis is an essential asset for the major jewellery brands.

Increased productivity: easier mass production

Robots never get tired or lose concentration, which means :
✔ 24-hour continuous production, increasing manufacturing volume.
✔ One speeding up the process This reduces the time needed for each stage of the investment casting process.

Example: A company using robots to mass-produce rings can increase its productivity by 30 to 50 % compared to pure artisanal production.

Cost optimisation: less wasted material and manual labour time

Automation considerably reduces the waste of raw materials and the cost of production. time spent by craftsmen on repetitive tasks. Fewer retouching operations are required, and the efficiency of the process means a better return on investment.

 

Robotisation vs craftsmanship: a balance between modernity and know-how

While technological advances offer clear benefitsbut they must not make work disappear manual and artistic jewellers. The real success lies in the balance between technology and craftsmanship.

 Integrating machines to complement traditional techniques

Robots and automated machines take care of the most technical and repetitive steps, enabling craftsmen to concentrate on creating and finishing jewellery. In this way, the precision offered by technology serves as a basis for more artistic and detailed manual work.

Example of a hybrid application :
✔ 3D printing and hand sculpting A craftsman can print a wax jewellery base, then rework it by hand to add unique details.
✔ Robotisation of cast iron and manual polishing After automated casting, the finishing and setting are carried out by expert jewellers.

 How craftspeople can take advantage of new technologies without losing the authenticity of their handiwork

The aim is to make robotisation a creation toolIt is not a replacement for human expertise. High jewellery, in particular, continues to place great value on handcrafting, which brings a high degree of quality to the work. soul and a unique touch to the parts manufactured.

Example: The major luxury brands often combine robotisation to ensure impeccable quality, while preserving a handcrafted touch for engraving, adding textures or setting precious stones.

Robotisation and automation in the lost wax casting revolutionised the jewellery industry by bringing precision, speed and cost reduction. Robots facilitate mass production and guarantee consistent quality, they do not replace traditional expertise but complement it.

By intelligently combining technology and expertisejewellers can optimise their production while preserving authenticity and artistic value of their creations. This synergy between modernity and tradition enables the jewellery industry to innovate without losing its essence.

 

 

The evolution of materials: resins, waxes and modern coatings

The jewellery industry has undergone a significant transformation thanks to advances in the materials used to make jewellery. lost wax casting. From traditional waxes at 3D printing resinsincluding new generation refractory mouldsThese innovations improve the precision, durability and environmental impact of the process. In this section, we explore the new generations of waxes and resinsinnovations in the field of refractory moulds and the impact positive environmental impact of these advances.

New generations of resins and waxes used in the jewellery industry

Synthetic waxes optimised for precision and thermal stability

Traditionally beeswax and natural waxes were the main materials used in jewellery. Today synthetic waxes have largely taken over, offering optimised properties:

• Enhanced thermal stability These waxes retain their shape and detail even under temperature variations.
• Greater precision They allow you to capture the tiniest details of models, which are essential for complex designs.
• Easy to withdraw They burn more cleanly, reducing residues in the mould.

Example: Some special waxes are formulated for shrink slightly before disposalThis facilitates evacuation and minimises the risk of mould cracking.

3D printing resins designed for clean combustion

The advent of 3D printing revolutionised the lost-wax casting process by introducing specific resins capable of behaving like traditional wax.

• Resins that can be calcined without residue Unlike conventional plastics, these resins burn completely without leaving any ash or bubbles.
• High-definition detail Allows the creation of very fine patterns that are difficult to achieve with traditional waxes.
• Reduced production time The models are printed directly in resin, eliminating the need for manual wax sculpting.

Example: La BlueCast X10 resin is an industry benchmark, offering clean combustion and exceptional detail.

Comparison between traditional waxes and high-tech resins

Aspect	Traditional waxes	3D printing resins
Precise details	Good, but depends on manual labour	Excellent, microscopic level
Production time	Long, requires manual sculpting	Fast, direct printing
Residues after combustion	May leave traces of wax	Clean, residue-free combustion
Flexibility for customisation	Medium, requires moulds	Very high, direct printing

Thanks to advanced resinsjewellers are now able to experiment with different shapes and patterns that are impossible to produce by handwhile maintaining the design fidelity in the final moulding.

 

Innovations in refractory moulds and protective linings

The success of the lost wax casting depends not only on the wax or resin models, but also on the quality of refractory moulds that capture every detail before the metal is cast.

New ceramic compositions for stronger moulds

The traditional plaster moulds are gradually being replaced by advanced ceramic mouldsoffering significant advantages:

• Increased resistance to heat For working with high-temperature metals such as platinum and titanium.
• Fine detail captured Ensures faithful reproduction of complex textures.
• Fewer cracks and pores Reduces moulding defects and improves the final appearance of jewellery.

Innovation: Some moulds incorporate micro-nano-particles to increase strength and prevent cracking during the baking process.

Improved coating techniques to reduce casting defects

The application of a specific coating on the moulds to produce jewellery sharper and more resistant after casting.

• Anti-oxidation protective coatings : Limits the formation of impurities on the molten metal.
• Hydrophobic treatments The metal flow is improved and the formation of bubbles is reduced.
• Nanoparticle coatings : Enable ultra-precise moulding by capturing every micrometre of the design.

Example: Some manufacturers use colloidal silica basewhich improve the fluidity of liquid metal and reduce the formation of air bubbles.

Environmental benefits of new materials in jewellery manufacture

The development of materials used in lost wax casting not only enhances the precision of the jewellery, but also contributes to reduce the ecological impact in the jewellery sector.

Reduced waste thanks to optimised resins

• Less wasted wax Printed resins replace hand-sculpted wax models, reducing material wastage.
• Recyclability : Some modern resins and waxes can be reused for other productions.

Reduction of toxic emissions during the cooking of mussels

• Clean-burning resins : Unlike traditional plastics, the new calcined resins do not produce no toxic fumes.
• Optimising furnaces New cooking technologies reduce energy consumption and limit emissions of greenhouse gases. CO2.

Example: The use of induction ovens to cook the moulds makes it possible to reduction from 30 to 40 % energy consumption compared to traditional ovens.

Contributing to eco-responsible initiatives in the jewellery sector

Jewellery manufacturers are increasingly adopting sustainable practices by using :

• Recycled metals from responsible sources.
• Biodegradable waxes and resinsreducing the impact on the environment.
• Longer-lasting refractory mouldslimiting production waste.

Trend : Many brands now include labels such as the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) to guarantee environmentally-friendly practices.

The evolution of materials used in investment casting opens up new horizons for modern jewellery. Thanks to synthetic waxes and 3D printing resinsto improved refractory moulds and advanced protective coatingsjewellers can create pieces using unrivalled precisionwhile reducing their ecological footprint.

By incorporating these innovations, jewellery manufacturers are combining quality, sustainability and environmental responsibilityThis is shaping the future of high-end jewellery.

 

 

Optimising quality control and jewellery finishing

The culmination of the lost-wax casting process involves an essential phase: quality control and jewellery finishing. With the development of new technologies, these stages are being modernised and optimised to guarantee pieces of unrivalled precision, while reducing errors and material losses. The integration of digital scanand polishing machines assisted by artificial intelligence and advanced engraving and plating techniques are raising the quality standards of contemporary jewellery.

Integration of scanning and digital control technologies

Traditional quality control techniques relied mainly on the eye and expertise of craftsmen. Today, these methods are supplemented by high-precision 3D scanners andanalysis assisted by artificial intelligence to detect the slightest defect at the earliest stages of production.

3D scanning and digital inspection to detect defects

The use of optical and digital tomography scanners allows the jewellery to be examined from all angles before and after casting.

• Detection of micro-cracks invisible to the naked eye before the metal is cast.
• Checking theuniformity of surfacesparticularly on complex parts.
• Comparison with original CAD model to identify any dimensional deviation.

These advances have made it possible toavoid losses of valuable materials and to guarantee absolute constancy in production.

Digital verification of dimensions and details before casting

Artificial intelligence software is playing a key role in the control of proportions and symmetry. Combined with 3D scanners, they :

• Identify tolerance deviations in relation to the defined dimensions.
• Check thealignment and precision motifs engraved before casting.
• Provide consistent quality throughout series production.

By reducing the risk of defects before the final phase, these tools limit waste of time and resourceswhile increasing the reliability of the parts manufactured.

Improvements in polishing and finishing techniques in jewellery manufacture

Finishing is an essential stage that determines not only appearance, but also the quality of the finish. sustainability jewellery. Recent advances in polishing and plating have made it possible to obtain results of an exceptional quality. unrivalled qualitywhile automating part of the process.

Polishing machines assisted by artificial intelligence

Traditional polishing techniques have now been supplemented by the use of automated numerically controlled machines which guarantee an even, ultra-smooth finish.

• Reduction of scratches and imperfections thanks to robotic arms that adjust pressure in real time.
• Adapting polishing to the type of metal used to avoid excessive abrasion.
• Precise polishing of complex areas or difficult to access on sculpted pieces.

The integration of artificial intelligence allows you to adjust automatically parameters according to the specific features of the jewellery, guaranteeing a perfect finish without excessive human intervention.

New plating and e-coating techniques to protect jewellery

Le nano veneer and e-coating represent the latest advances in jewellery protection against wear and oxidation.

• Le nano veneer applies an ultra-thin layer of protection while preserving the original appearance of the metal.
• L'e-coating (electroplating) ensures uniform coverage even on complex designs, extending the life of jewellery.
• These treatments offer increased resistance external aggressions (humidity, pollution, contact with the skin).

Thanks to these innovations, jewellery retains its brilliance for longer, reducing the need for regular maintenance or reapplication of protective coatings.

Advanced personalisation thanks to digital technologies

One of the great advantages of new technologies applied to jewellery is the ability to advanced customisation options. Thanks to digital tools, it is now possible to engrave, modify and adapt a design in just a few clicks to meet customer expectations.

Laser engraving and digital cutting for even greater detail

Advances in laser engraving and digital cutting to obtain extremely precise motifswell beyond the capabilities of traditional techniques.

• High-precision laser engraving Adds complex patterns, initials or personalised messages without altering the surface of the jewel.
• Assisted digital cutting ideal for complex geometric shapes or designs requiring a high degree of precision. fine adjustments before final manufacture.
• Fast, risk-free customisation The digital preview allows you to validate the rendering before production, thus avoiding any irreversible engraving errors.

These techniques are particularly used for wedding jewellery, made-to-measure pendants and limited editionswhere every detail counts.

Rapid adaptation of models to customer trends and requirements

The integration of digital technologies is enabling jewellers to adapt to new technologies. in real time to market developments.

• Quick design updates in line with new trends in the sector.
• Production of limited series and one-off pieces without excessive technical constraints.
• Customisation on demand The possibility of adjusting a model to customer preferences without modifying the entire production chain.

This flexibility allows jewellery brands to respond more quickly to consumer expectationsThe result is an unrivalled level of quality and finish.

The optimisation of quality control and finishing techniques represents a major step forward in the development of investment casting. Thanks to 3D scanners, artificial intelligence systems, advanced polishing technologies and new engraving and plating techniquesit is now possible to guarantee a consistent quality, advanced customisation and a perfect finish at every stage of the process.

These innovations make it possible toraising the standards of jewellerywhile ensuring fewer errors, better resource management and rapid adaptation to market trends. By combining traditional know-how and technological advancescraftsmen and jewellery manufacturers are opening new creative perspectiveswhere excellence becomes the norm.

The future of lost-wax casting between tradition and innovation

La lost wax casting is a technique that has spanned the ages, from its ancient origins to its integration into the most modern manufacturing processes. This know-how, which has long been based on the expertise of craftsmen, is now undergoing a major transformation thanks to technological advances. L'3D printingthe robotisationthe new resins and quality control methods assisted by artificial intelligence are revolutionising the way jewellers design and produce their creations.

The adoption of these innovations offers many advantages :

• A unrivalled precisionThis means we can produce ever more detailed and sophisticated parts.
• A increased productivityThis is essential to meet the demands of contemporary jewellery and mass production.
• A better resource managementThis will reduce losses of valuable materials and encourage more environmentally-friendly practices.
• A advanced flexibility and customisationThis enables designers to respond quickly to trends and specific customer requests.

However, these advances do not replace craftsmanship, but rather the complete. The integration of technology into lost-wax casting does not mean the disappearance of traditional know-how, but rather its evolution into an era where humans and machines working hand in hand to push back the boundaries of jewellery design.

Towards excellence in jewellery through innovation

The combination of tradition and technology opens up fascinating prospects for tomorrow's jewellery. Optimising processes not only makes it possible to improve efficiencybut alsoraising quality standards and create increasingly unique and durable pieces.

The luxury brands, independent designers and industrial manufacturers must now embrace these new technologies to remain competitive while preserving the authenticity and artistic value of their creations.

Whether you are a jeweller looking for new production methods or a craftsman wanting to perfect your skills, thedevelopments in lost-wax casting offers invaluable opportunities to innovate and create ever more exceptional jewellery.

Would you like to incorporate these innovations into the manufacture of your collections? Contact SMV Thailand to find out how these technologies can transform your production and help you create exceptional jewellery, without obligation.

 

 

Resources

Lost wax casting and its development

1. History and technique of lost wax casting - Institut National des Métiers d'Art (INMA)
   ➝ A detailed overview of craft skills and technical developments.

2. Lost wax casting in jewellery: principles and applications - GIA (Gemological Institute of America)
   ➝ Explanation of manufacturing methods and process precision in fine jewellery.

3. 3D printing applied to investment casting - 3D Natives
   ➝ How new technologies are revolutionising the production of bespoke jewellery.

Robotisation and automation in the jewellery industry

4. Machines and robots in jewellery manufacture - Designer Jewellers
   ➝ Analysis of modern equipment to optimise production and quality control.

5. Automation and 3D printing: the future of jewellery-making - Science & Vie
   ➝ A dossier on the convergence between craftsmanship and artificial intelligence in the luxury sector.

Materials and new finishing techniques

6. New-generation jewellery waxes and resins - Materials Today
   ➝ Comparison between traditional materials and modern innovations.

7. Refractory moulds and modern casting techniques - Metal & Technique
   ➝ How new ceramics are improving the precision and finish of jewellery.

8. Veneering and e-coating: the revolution in jewellery finishes - Jewellery Focus
   ➝ Advanced techniques to protect and embellish jewellery over the long term.

📌 Jewellery quality control and personalisation resources

9. Artificial intelligence for quality control in the jewellery industry - Journal du Luxe
   ➝ The impact of new technologies on the standardisation and excellence of top-of-the-range parts.

10. Laser engraving and digital cutting applied to jewellery - Laser Focus World
    ➝ How laser techniques enable greater customisation and precision.

 

FAQ on lost wax casting and modern jewellery techniques

What is the lost wax casting technique?

La lost wax casting is a moulding method used in the jewellery and foundry industries to create complex metal parts with a high level of detail. It involves sculpting a wax model, which is then encased in a refractory mould. The wax is then removed by heating, leaving a cavity into which molten metal is poured to create the final object. This technique is particularly prized in jewellery for its precision and ability to reproduce delicate and complex shapes.

How old is lost wax casting?

The lost wax technique dates back more than 5,000 years old and has its origins in the earliest civilisations of Mesopotamia, ancient Egypt and the Indus Valley. It was used in ancient times by the Greeks and Romans, who perfected it to create bronze sculptures, jewellery and religious objects. Even today, it remains a benchmark in jewellery and art casting.

What are the advantages of the lost wax technique?

Lost wax casting offers a wide range of benefits :

• Extreme precision For creating jewellery and sculptures with very fine details.
• Great freedom of design Ideal for complex, asymmetrical or openwork creations.
• Versatility of materials Compatible with various precious metals such as gold, silver, platinum and bronze.
• Series and customised production Can be used for one-off pieces as well as small or medium production runs.
• Impeccable finishes Smooth surface that requires little retouching after moulding.

What is the lost wax technique for making jewellery?

In jewellery, the technique of lost wax is used to create rings, pendants, earrings and other ornaments with exceptional precision. Once the wax model has been sculpted, it is replaced by precious metal melted in a refractory mould. This technique is ideal for personalised creations and complex pieces, guaranteeing an unrivalled level of detail.

What wax is used in the lost wax technique?

There are several types of wax suitable for lost wax casting:

• Natural beeswax Historically used, but not widely used today because of its variable malleability.
• Synthetic wax (microcrystalline wax) More stable and resistant, it allows precise modelling.
• Injection wax Used for mass production, it is injected under pressure into a silicone mould to obtain exact replicas.
• 3D printing resin This technique is becoming increasingly popular, as it allows for extreme precision and digital design before casting.

What is the lost wax principle?

The principle of lost wax is based on replacing a wax model with molten metal. Here are the key stages:

1. Creating the wax model (hand-carved or 3D printed).
2. Moulding The model is covered with a refractory material such as plaster or ceramic.
3. Wax removal The mould is heated to melt and evacuate the wax, leaving an empty cavity.
4. Metal casting The molten metal is poured into the hot mould.
5. Demoulding and finishing The mould is broken, the jewel polished and refined to obtain the final finish.

What is the lost wax casting technique?

The technique of lost wax casting is a process used to produce detailed metal parts, mainly for jewellery and sculpture. It is used to create works in bronze, silver, gold and platinum with great precision. This process enables complex shapes to be moulded with great detail, and is used for both one-off creations and mass production.

What is a lost wax bronze?

A lost wax bronze is a sculpture or object made using the lost wax casting technique using bronze as the main material. This process is particularly popular in art sculpture and in silverwareThis is because it can capture very fine detail while ensuring optimum durability. Artists such as Auguste Rodin or Alberto Giacometti used this method for their bronze works.

How do you make a mould for casting bronze using the lost wax technique?

To make a lost wax bronzeHere are the essential steps:

1. Creating the wax model The final object is sculpted in wax or printed in 3D resin.
2. Manufacture of ceramic or refractory plaster moulds The wax model is immersed in a liquid refractory coating, which hardens.
3. Cooking the mould The mould is heated to a high temperature (around 700-900°C) to melt the wax and leave an empty cavity.
4. Bronze casting The molten bronze is poured into the wax-emptied mould.
5. Cooling and demoulding After solidification, the mould is broken to reveal the bronze piece.
6. Finish and patina The sculpture is polished, patinated or engraved according to the artist's wishes.