How is a piece of jewelry made? The artisans behind every creation
By Manon & César, founders of Maison ODACE
When observing a piece of jewelry, one perceives a sparkle, a presence, an emotion.
But behind every jewel lies a chain of craftsmanship that is often invisible.
At ODACE, every jewelry creation is the result of the work of numerous artisans and experts, united by the same high standards: to give birth to a jewel made to stand the test of time.
Here are the main stages of jewelry manufacturing, and the professions that bring it to life.
1. The designer: at the origin of the jewelry creation
Everything begins with an idea.
Inspirations, sketches, and then a precise technical drawing. It is at this stage that the identity of the piece is born.
2. The 3D designer: giving volume to the jewel
The 3D designer models the jewel in volume based on the initial drawing.
Like an architect, they make it possible to visualize the piece from all angles and to adjust proportions, technical constraints, and details.
The jewel is then materialized in wax, by hand or using a 3D printer.
3. The caster: transforming wax into precious metal
This step relies on an ancestral technique: lost-wax casting.
The wax model is enclosed in a plaster mold. Under the effect of heat, the wax disappears and leaves behind an impression into which molten gold is poured.
The mold is then broken to reveal the jewel’s setting.
4. The jeweler: structuring the piece
The jeweler takes the piece from the casting to work on it, adjust it, and prepare it to receive the diamonds.
Every detail is refined to ensure a perfectly balanced result.
5. The lapidary: revealing the diamond's light
The lapidary cuts and polishes the diamonds.
Their goal: to obtain perfect symmetry to maximize brilliance and light diffusion.
6. The gemologist: selecting the stones
The gemologist selects the diamonds according to precise criteria: color, clarity, cut, and symmetry.
At ODACE, we work exclusively with lab-grown diamonds of D or E quality and VS+ clarity, in order to guarantee a high level of excellence.
7. The setter: fixing the diamonds with precision
The setter positions each stone on the setting.
Their work consists of securing the diamond while highlighting it.
8. The polisher: enhancing the material
The polisher removes the marks left during the various manufacturing stages.
The gold regains all its brilliance and smoothness to the touch.
9. The engraver: making each jewel unique
The engraver applies the official hallmarks, the ODACE logo, the serial number, as well as any personalized engravings.
Each jewel then becomes unique.
10. Quality control: guaranteeing excellence
Before being delivered, each jewel is meticulously inspected.
This final step ensures that it meets the high standards of our jewelry house.
A jewelry creation is a collective work
Behind every ODACE piece, at least ten artisans and experts are involved.
Ten areas of expertise, ten perspectives, one shared standard.
It is this invisible chain that gives a jewel its true value.
To discover our engagement rings adorned with lab-grown diamonds or to imagine your own creation, we welcome you by appointment at our boutique in Paris or via video call.
