Q: What is the process that is used
in Craig D. Aaron’s jewelry designing?
 A:
Craig uses renderings (drawings) which he creates for the initial design
ideas. He then hand carves wax patterns in 3-D form to resemble the rendering,
a very precise and time consuming process. From here, the wax carving is
placed in a steel tube, which is then filled with a wet plaster mix. When
dry, the steel tube is then placed in a high temperature oven where the
wax goes through an evaporation process. This leaves a cavity in the plaster
in the form of the original wax pattern. The metal of choice, (i.e. gold
or platinum), is then melted and poured into the cavity and cooled. The
plaster is then broken away to reveal a rough version of the jewelry piece.
Several clean up processes are applied, including sandblasting, filing,
polishing, and steam cleaning. If the design requires, gemstones are then
set. Final polishing is completed and trademarks are applied. The entire
process described above is known as the “lost wax casting” process.
Q: How long does it take Craig D. Aaron to
design and make a piece of jewelry?
A: With every piece being different, the amount of time usually varies from
a couple of hours to a few days. It could take several weeks even, depending
on the complexity and size of the piece.
 Q:
What precious metals are used in Craig D. Aaron’s jewelry designs?
A: Craig’s favorite metals are high karat yellow gold (18kt and 22kt)
because of their pliable nature and their dept of color. He is also partial
to using platinum due to its density and feel. Combining high karat gold
and platinum is definitely the ultimate in working materials for Craig,
due to the beautiful and rich color combinations and the overall integrity
and quality of the metals
Q: What kinds of gemstones are used in Craig
D. Aaron’s designs?
A: Craig has many reputable sources for gemstones of all types, shapes and
colors. Spending time with a customer assists in deciding what stones to
work with before the process begins. |
