A 9 carat gold ring is made in a few fixed steps: designing, casting, filing, setting stones and polishing. First, the goldsmith mixes pure gold with other metals to create 9 carat gold. Then the ring gets its shape and its finish. With a handmade ring this takes time, and you can see that in the details.
Curious about what happens before a ring sits on your finger? In this blog we take you through it step by step. That way you know what to look for when you choose a gold ring.
What happens before the gold is melted?
Every ring starts with an idea and a precise drawing.
From sketch to design
A designer first draws the shape of the ring. Think of a twisted band or a clean edge around a stone. She pays attention to comfort, because a ring should sit pleasantly on your finger.
At our brand, every design revolves around three things: quality, comfort and timeless design. A ring should look beautiful today, and still in five years. Read more about this approach in the story behind our design process.
The right mix of metals
Next, the goldsmith mixes the metal. For 9 carat gold, 37.5 percent pure gold goes in. The rest consists of metals such as silver and copper. Why this ratio matters so much is explained in the blog about what 375 means on a gold ring.
How does the ring get its shape?
After the design comes the real handwork at the workbench.
Casting or forging
Many goldsmiths first make a model in wax. This model goes into a plaster mold. The liquid gold then fills the space where the wax used to be. This creates a rough ring in exactly the right shape.
Another method is forging. The goldsmith bends and hammers a bar of gold into a band. Both techniques are centuries old and require a lot of experience.
Filing and sanding
A rough ring still has sharp edges. With files and fine sandpaper, the goldsmith makes everything smooth. The inside gets extra attention, because it touches your skin all day long.
A good goldsmith feels with his fingers whether any unevenness remains. Only when everything is smooth does the ring move on to the next step. You notice this later, because a smooth ring does not catch on your sweater or your hair.
Twist Ring Mother of Pearl Gold
How does the stone get into the ring?
Setting a stone is one of the most precise steps in the whole process.
A setting made to measure
Every stone has a slightly different shape. That is why the goldsmith adjusts the setting to the stone itself. He carefully bends small edges of gold over the stone, so that it sits firmly in place.
With natural stones such as amethyst, the color differs from stone to stone. That makes every ring a little unique. You can read about the difference between natural and lab made stones in the blog on natural and synthetic gemstones.
Checking the details
A loose stone will fall out after a while. That is why checking is so important. The founder of our brand regularly visits the workshops in Italy, Bangkok and Hong Kong. She tests materials and checks details, from the clasp to the setting of a stone.
Why does a handmade ring take longer?
Handwork cannot be rushed, and you notice that in the delivery time.
Handwork in our workshop
We make our 9 carat gold rings by hand in our workshop. That is why the delivery time is 1 to 4 weeks. As soon as your ring is on its way, you will receive a message.
Polishing as the final step
Finally, the goldsmith polishes the ring until it shines. Then there is a last check of shape, size and stone. Only then does the ring go to you in its beautiful packaging.
During polishing, the goldsmith also decides on the look. A high polish makes the gold shine warmly. A matte finish looks soft and calm instead.
Would you like to choose a handmade ring yourself? Then take a look at the 9 carat ring collection, with twisted and clean designs, with a stone or in pure gold.
Frequently asked questions about making a gold ring
I'm happy to answer a few frequently asked questions:
How long does it take to make a gold ring?
That depends on the ring and the workshop. For our 9 carat gold rings the delivery time is 1 to 4 weeks, because we make them by hand.
Is a handmade ring stronger?
It is mainly about the care taken at every step. A good setting and a smooth finish make a ring comfortable and durable.
Why does the color of my stone differ from the photo?
Natural stones each have their own color and pattern. Small differences are therefore part of a real stone.
What if something is wrong with my ring?
All products come with a 2 year warranty on manufacturing defects. Do keep your proof of purchase for this.
Want to know more, or have questions? The experts at Sparkling Jewels are happy to help.
