Starting from a drawing on paper, we create a 3D model of the jewel.
From a first metal sample we produce a rubber mould for serial reproduction
3D printing allows us to skip the moulding and move on right away to the casting.
We obtain a rough piece through lost-wax microcasting.
Support from A to Z
MICROVALLE – Artisans from design to microcasting offers full support during every stage of production of the jewel, from design to finished product. Our customers are always our point of reference; therefore, we study customised solutions according to their requirements and we look after them from start to finish in the genesis of each new item.
At the same time, we have developed a catalogue of semi-finished findings; these items are highly versatile: they work as technical support to the customer’s creations and take on many roles according to his point of view.
Step 1.Concept and Design
Our customers come to us with a sketch on paper – or sometimes only with an idea – and find concrete help in the development of their project. MICROVALLE is able to do that thanks to long-standing partnerships with different designers. The idea can finally come to life through this triple collaboration between customer, draftsman and producer.
Step 1.Concept and Design
Our customers come to us with a sketch on paper – or sometimes only with an idea – and find concrete help in the development of their project. MICROVALLE is able to do that thanks to long-standing partnerships with different designers. The idea can finally come to life through this triple collaboration between customer, draftsman and producer.
Step 2. Design
During the actual design of the jewel, we carefully follow the customer’s suggestions and we stay as true as possible to the original draft; we then develop the project through a software called 3Design. The customer can therefore get a clear picture of the finished jewel. In this stage our draftsman’s recommendations are fundamental, since he has a deep knowledge of all the technical details that should be kept in mind, for instance metal losses. When we design a jewel together, we also study the appropriate production method: we can follow the traditional path – with the creation of the rubber mould – or we can resort to 3D printing.
Step 2. Design
During the actual design of the jewel, we carefully follow the customer’s suggestions and we stay as true as possible to the original draft; we then develop the project through a software called 3Design. The customer can therefore get a clear picture of the finished jewel. In this stage our draftsman’s recommendations are fundamental, since he has a deep knowledge of all the technical details that should be kept in mind, for instance metal losses. When we design a jewel together, we also study the appropriate production method: we can follow the traditional path – with the creation of the rubber mould – or we can resort to 3D printing.
Step 3/A. Creation of the wax model
Once we approve the draft, we create a first wax prototype thanks to a Roland CNC Milling Machine. We then run an accurate quality and functionality check, hence the model is ready for microcasting. We use the resulting sample to create a rubber mould for serial reproduction
Step 3/A. Creation of the wax model
Once we approve the draft, we create a first wax prototype thanks to a Roland CNC Milling Machine. We then run an accurate quality and functionality check, hence the model is ready for microcasting. We use the resulting sample to create a rubber mould for serial reproduction
Step 3/B. 3D Printing
Instead of the traditional path, our clients can resort to 3D printing to get to the finished product. This process is called stereolithography or simply rapid prototyping. Consequently, the model and the rubber mould are no more necessary, since we can go right away from the 3D project to the product. Thanks to our Project CPX 3000 Plus Printer, we are able to save valuable time and we have the chance to create more thin-looking jewels.
Step 3/B. 3D Printing
Instead of the traditional path, our clients can resort to 3D printing to get to the finished product. This process is called stereolithography or simply rapid prototyping. Consequently, the model and the rubber mould are no more necessary, since we can go right away from the 3D project to the product. Thanks to our Project CPX 3000 Plus Printer, we are able to save valuable time and we have the chance to create more thin-looking jewels.
Step 4. Pre-setting
We can also pre-set stones in the wax model created through the traditional path. The product obtained will be more economical but equally well-balanced in technical terms.
Step 4. Pre-setting
We can also pre-set stones in the wax model created through the traditional path. The product obtained will be more economical but equally well-balanced in technical terms.
Step 5. Microcasting
The microcasting is one of main reasons why our customers are pleased with us. Thanks to more than 20 years of experience in the field, we can analyse every problem and look for a solution. An Indutherm VC 500 Machine carries out our casting. We take particular care of this delicate stage in the genesis of a jewel, that is why we prefer to separate the casting of wax models from the one of 3D-printed products.
Step 5. Microcasting
The microcasting is one of main reasons why our customers are pleased with us. Thanks to more than 20 years of experience in the field, we can analyse every problem and look for a solution. An Indutherm VC 500 Machine carries out our casting. We take particular care of this delicate stage in the genesis of a jewel, that is why we prefer to separate the casting of wax models from the one of 3D-printed products.
Step 6. Finishing
Once the items have been casted, they need to be cleaned, polished and galvanised. MICROVALLE accompanies its customers during this last stage as well, and it helps them choose the finishing that best suits their needs.
Step 6. Finishing
Once the items have been casted, they need to be cleaned, polished and galvanised. MICROVALLE accompanies its customers during this last stage as well, and it helps them choose the finishing that best suits their needs.
