How much does jewellery CAD design cost? A practical price guide
Jewellery CAD design is usually priced per style, and the price depends mostly on the type of piece and how complex it is. A plain band takes far less time than a necklace with many stones and settings, so the quotes are very different.
What changes the price
- Type of piece. Rings, earrings and pendants are usually cheaper than bracelets, and bracelets are cheaper than necklaces.
- Complexity. The number of stones, settings such as pavé or micro settings, and fine detail like milgrain all add modelling time.
- How finished your idea is. A clear sketch or reference is faster to model than an idea that still has to be worked out.
- Revisions. Changes after approval take extra time and are usually charged by the hour.
- Renders and extras. Images, 360° views and videos are priced separately from the model.
Our CAD modelling rates
These are our rates at the time of writing, in US dollars, per style onwards. The latest figures are always on our pricing section.
| Piece | Simple | Medium | Complex |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ring, earring, pendant | $15 to $20 | $25 | $40 to $100 |
| Bracelet | $25 to $35 | $40 to $50 | $50 to $120 |
| Necklace | $35 to $50 | $75 to $100 | $150 |
Changes after approval are charged at $3 per hour, agreed with you first. Final prices depend on the design, so treat these as a guide.
How to keep the cost down
- Send a clear brief. Include a sketch or photo, the metal, stone sizes and ring size. See how to write a design brief.
- Finish your design decisions first. Changing the stone shape halfway costs more than choosing it at the start.
- Batch similar styles. Designs that share a setting or shank are quicker to model as a group.
- Send complete files for rendering. If you already have a CAD file, send it in .3dm format with all fine details built in.
Cheap CAD can cost more later
A model that is not built for casting can cost far more than it saved: failed casts, thin prongs, stones that do not seat. Check that the model is casting-ready, not just good-looking on screen.
Want a quote for your design? Send it to us on WhatsApp and we will tell you the price before we start.
Frequently asked questions
Is jewellery CAD priced per style or per hour?
Our CAD rates are per style onwards. Changes after approval are charged per hour.
Do renders cost extra?
Yes. Renders, 360° views and videos are priced separately from the model.
Do you quote before starting?
Yes. Final charges are agreed with you before work starts.
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Have a design in mind?
Send a sketch, a photo or an idea on WhatsApp and we will tell you what it involves.
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