Jewellery CAD vs hand-carved wax: which is better?
Before CAD, almost every piece started as a hand-carved wax. Many skilled carvers still work this way, and for some pieces it is the best route. CAD is now the more common choice for production work, but neither method is simply better.
Where CAD is stronger
- Precision. Dimensions are set exactly, and stone seats are cut to the stone size.
- Repeat orders. The same file produces the same piece again, in any quantity.
- Changes. Edit a number on screen instead of carving a new wax.
- Previews. A model can be rendered before anything is made.
- Symmetry. Matching earrings and perfectly even pavé are far easier.
Where hand carving is stronger
- One-off sculptural or organic pieces with a hand-made character
- Designs that are worked out by touch while carving
- Artists who want the surface to show the hand of the maker
Cost and speed
For a single simple piece, a skilled carver can be fast. For anything with many stones, several sizes or repeat orders, CAD usually wins on time and consistency. Many studios use both: a model is built in CAD, printed, and then refined by hand.
Which should you choose?
Choose CAD if you need accuracy, repeat production, renders or changes after feedback. Choose hand carving for a unique sculptural piece. Read what jewellery CAD involves or see our CAD rates.
Frequently asked questions
Is CAD jewellery lower quality than hand-made?
No. Quality depends on the design and the finishing. CAD models are cast and finished by hand in the same way as carved ones.
Can a CAD model be changed after printing?
The printed piece cannot be changed, but the file can be edited and printed again, which is why changes are cheap before casting.
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