Lost Wax Casting
A precision metal casting process where a wax model is encased, burned out, and replaced with molten metal — the most common method for detailed jewelry production.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Detailed Explanation
Lost wax casting (investment casting, cire perdue) is a metal-forming technique dating back over 6,000 years. The process involves: (1) creating a wax model; (2) attaching wax models to a wax "tree"; (3) encasing the tree in heat-resistant investment; (4) heating to melt and burn out the wax; (5) pouring molten metal into the cavity; (6) breaking away the investment to reveal cast metal pieces. This method accounts for approximately 68% of global jewelry production. Modern variations include vacuum-assisted casting and centrifugal casting for improved metal flow into fine details. Casting typically has a 3-5% metal loss rate.
Common Uses
Rings, pendants, earrings, bracelets — any design requiring fine detail and undercuts.
Advantages
Captures extremely fine detail, allows complex geometries, efficient for batch production, low material waste.
Limitations
Initial wax injection mold cost, 3-5% metal loss during casting, requires skilled labor for tree assembly.