You’ve found “the one” and now you need to find the ring. The thought of buying an engagement ring can be overwhelming, especially when there are endless options. While many scour the internet and brick-and-mortar shops for the latest trends and designs, others are turning to 3D printing to create a ring instead.
3D printing is the process of making solid objects from a digital file using additive processes. The object, or a ring, in this case, is created by laying down consecutive layers of material until the object is complete.
3D printing allows consumers the opportunity the create a ring that is truly unique. Not only can these designs be easily edited, but they typically allow for more intricate designs, too.
Here are a few businesses that incorporate 3D printing into their processes right here in Calgary.
Brinkhaus
This traditional jeweler offers in-house custom design using hand drawn and computer-rendered images. Depending on the final design of your ring, designers can determine if your ring will be better off handmade or sent off to one of their manufacturing partners for 3D printing. Their award-winning design team has numerous internationally acclaimed prizes including three De Beers Diamond International Awards.
 823 6 Ave. S.W., 403-269-4800, brinkhaus.com
Designs by Manuel JewelleryÂ
This full-service shop houses the studio, showroom and workshop of Manuel Galvez. Manuel hand sketches your designs on the spot and then passes his sketches off to in-house designers to create designs for 3D printing. You can also try on your ring in a wax form to allow for further revisions and ensure you’re happy before your ring is sent off to be printed.
1106 6 Ave S.W., 403-245-5225, designsbymanuel.com
Davidson Jewels
Once your needs, desires and budget have been nailed down, designers will work with you to bring your vision to life using computer modelling and 3D printing. The store offers free, no-obligation design consultation and the whole process typically takes four to six weeks.
533 Riverfront Ave S.E., 403-457-3307, davidsonjewels.com
Gem by Carati
One of the uncommon techniques used by this jeweler is lost-wax casting. Your ring will first be created into a 3D wax cast allowing for intricate hand carvings to be added. Once it’s approved a mold is made from your wax ring and used to cast your final ring in your material of choice. They have a 3D printer in store, so if you want to see your ring in wax form, they can typically have it on your finger within a few hours.
225 7 Ave S.W., 403-264-8772, gembycarati.com
J. Vair Anderson
This jeweler located in the downtown core has been in business for 93 years. They offer hand drawn and computer-aided custom jewellery designs so customers can have their rings 3D printed wherever they like. Other services they offer are the redesign and modernization of estate and heirloom pieces.
409 3 St. S.W., 403-266-1669, jvairanderson.com
The Goldsmiths
In just four to five weeks you can go through consultation, design approval and ring completion. When designing your ring you will be able to see a wax model that is to scale and fitted with stones. Once approved, your ring will be made of the metal of your choice.
53 14 St N.W., 403-270-7818, thegoldsmiths.ca