How 3D Works?
3D software uses computer-generated lines, surfaces, or solids to create 3D models of a jewelry item. With a 3D model, you can assign specific metals, gems, and colors to make a rendering. These renderings can be very realistic and can be generated and viewed at any angle around the item. Modeling in 3D is very different from drawing or designing in 2D. The 3D style of drawing has a higher degree of difficulty than 2D. Although each 3D program has ways of tackling these tasks, none of them is a causal effort.

What 2D Can Do For You?
In the retail jewelry world, most of your time is spent trying to get the customer to say “Yes!” to your proposed design. The length of time required to get that “Yes!” can be greatly reduced using 2D software. 2D clears up about 95% of the communication problem by allowing customers with limited jewelry knowledge and experience to actually visualize the exact design you are trying to sell them. In looking at the newer 3D products, be wary of people trying to criticize 2D to help sell their 3D product. This is a big misunderstanding of your needs and the strengths & weaknesses of the software. If a big part of your day is working directly with customers, it’s hard to beat the ease and quickness of 2D software.

What 3D Can Do For You?
3D truly represents a new era in the jewelry business. It is now possible to design something in exact detail, accurately sized, and have it built to exact scale. You can test ideas, try different variations, and see every aspect of the model. Once complete, your model is ready to go to a CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing) machine to be created. The wax will be near perfect in every detail. The most important issue in using 3D technology is your dedication to learning the program. You have to practice and spend time to get good at it, just like any other art form.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I build the item on a computer controlled machine?
If building items is your main focus, the only way to go is a 3D program that is suited to the type of work you are doing. Be prepared to spend time with each model. No matter how powerful the software, you will spend HOURS building. Same as on the bench, but here you can quickly change your design, save it, and edit it for future use.

How can I present the design concept to the customer?
Both 2D & 3D products work for this, but 2D really shines here due to the speed. If you need to make the sale in minutes, 2D can create even complex designs quickly using any item or image you have in stock. However, 3D is also a very powerful selling tool. The “wow” factor to spin the item on the screen is very powerful. Getting there is the harder part, but there are many items that you can build quickly that are very impressive. One drawback is the very thing most people use to sell with: actual items in stock. Building every item that you will ever need is a tempting idea, but would take too much time to complete.

Can I design very detailed original items?
Although this can be accomplished by both systems, I would give the edge to 3D. The level of detail is astonishing, as is the ability to see multiple angles when designing.
How should I design a matching band to an existing engagement ring?
I would recommend 2D every time. Getting the item in the system and making that band should take less than fifteen minutes to do 3 versions with 2D. The customer can fill in details as they see it visualized.

Can I create an entirely new jewelry line?
3D is the way to go. Using the tools in the 3D world to create a new line is very powerful. You can explore every design idea and have the ability to make the item after designing. You can calculate the weight of an item in all metals as well as even build in the seats for setting. 2D does have some strong points, as you can use it to take your best sellers in and then build from there.
I would like to share some personal thoughts on the relative differences and strengths of selling, designing, and building jewelry using 2D and 3D CAD (Computer Aided Design) software for jewelry. - Jeff High