The image on the left shows the original hand carved wax models of
the parts used to create "Dillon's Pride", a matching band
for our "Shannon's Delight" engagement ring. The wax
models on the left were vaporized in the process of making the primary "investment" mold. The
picture on the right is a "wax" which will be size adjusted
to meet a customer order and then cast in silver or gold. In this
case the knotwork will be cast separately. We often cast the knotwork
in 14K white gold and the shank (ring body) in 14K yellow gold.
To the left and below are photos of the hand carved wax model of
a "lite" version of our Shannon's Delight engagement ring. It
is being made especially for women with smaller hands and fingers. The
knotwork is made of wax covered metal wire.
Same
model, different view. 
The
carved models and the molded waxes, later created from rubber
molds, will actually be "lost" in the creation of the
first metal "model" and the actual rings. Losing
(vaporizing) the wax models is part of the process of creating
the "investment castings" that are used to create the
first metal model and, later, the the finished piece. The waxes
are always lost (vaporized) in the process of creating the investment
castings needed to cast the original models and the actual rings. This
is where the term "lost wax" method comes from. This "Lost
Wax" investment casting technology has changed little since
first invented by Leoardo DaVinci.
Above are 2 views of our newest wax
model for "Maureen", our
newest (10/2001) Claddagh Engagement
Ring.
We are now accepting orders for Maureen
in
Yellow or White 14K gold with
a variety of different heart shaped
stones.
See Below:
Click
HERE For More About Maureen
Above, Maureen is ready to wear!
She is shown in solid 14K yellow
gold
displaying a heart shaped Lab Created
Emerald.
