Design
It's where it all begins!
In today’s jewelry design world, computer-aided drawing has become essential, complementing and increasingly replacing traditional paper sketches and manual techniques. Professionals rely on creative brainstorming and design expertise to produce sketches, 3D images, and prototypes across various jewelry styles. Jewelry designers bring not only their artistic vision but also their technical engineering skills to create pieces that are both beautiful and structurally sound.
Here, you can see Victor Benaderette, Ruby Mardi’s co-owner and talented jewelry designer, in action!
Casting
Casting begins with a craftsman filling a wax or 3D-printed model of the jewelry piece with plaster to create a precise mold. The plaster mold is then placed in an oven to harden, during which all wax or resin melts away, leaving a detailed, hollow plaster form.
Once hardened, the mold is ready for the metal. Molten metal is poured into the plaster mold using a vacuum or centrifugal casting machine to ensure every detail is captured. After cooling briefly, the mold is submerged in cold water, causing the plaster to dissolve and reveal the solid metal jewelry piece in its final shape.
Soldering & polishing
After casting, the jewelry piece may undergo an initial polishing stage to smooth out any rough surfaces left by the mould. However, in some cases, like the ring we’re showing, the jeweler starts with pre-formed metal, such as a metal bar or sheet. In this case, the jeweler carefully shapes the metal into a round ring using specialized tools. Once the shape is formed, soldering comes into play. The jeweler applies controlled heat to the metal to join the ends of the ring with precision, ensuring a strong and seamless connection. This step is key to assembling components—whether it's for rings, clasps, or other intricate parts—before moving on to the next stages of polishing and stone setting.
Stone Setting
In the stone setting phase, pre-faceted gemstones are carefully selected for their quality, precision, and brilliance. Each gemstone is secured within its setting by an expert setter, who uses specialized tools to gently but firmly fit the metal around the gem.
Depending on the design, this might involve a classic prong setting, which elevates the gem and maximizes light exposure for added brilliance, or a bezel setting, where the stone is fully encircled by metal for a sleek, protective look.
For some unique projects, we also work with skilled faceters to shape rough stones, transforming raw materials into beautifully faceted gems ready for setting. This collaboration between setter and faceter brings each piece to life while honoring our commitment to ethical sourcing, supporting both the environment and the communities behind every gemstone.
Final Refining
Once the stone setting is complete, the jewelry piece undergoes its final polishing to achieve a flawless, lustrous finish. This critical step removes any remaining marks or imperfections from the surface, enhancing both the metal's shine and the gemstones' brilliance. Using a variety of tools—such as polishing wheels, buffing compounds, and specialized brushes—our skilled artisans work meticulously to bring out the piece’s full beauty.
The final result is a smooth, radiant surface that highlights the craftsmanship and attention to detail, ensuring the jewelry is not only stunning but ready for its new owner.
Enjoying!
At Ruby Mardi, when WE receive a ready-to-wear piece, we take the next step in our process: paying tribute to this little work of art. We photograph it from every angle, film it, and share it with the world. This marketing stage is one we approach with the same artistic care as the design itself. There’s something truly exciting about receiving a piece we’ve created and seeing it come to life in its final form!
When YOU receive your Ruby Mardi piece, you’ll feel that same excitement. Whether you’re treating yourself, preparing for a proposal, or gifting something truly special, receiving fine jewelry always stirs emotions. This jewel will become part of the wearer’s story and, over time, may be passed down as a treasured heirloom.
CUSTOM YOUR UNIQUE JEWEL AT RUBY MARDI 🖤
We create meaningful pieces of jewelry that you'll cherish for a lifetime!
Bespoke jewelry design is a fun process you'll enjoy from the beginning of the journey to the sparkling result you'll bring home.
Tell us about your project!
