A number of technological innovations have had a fundamental impact on the world we live in today and how we function as a society. Among them is the development of 3D printing - considered one of the most revolutionary technologies of the 21st century.
The invention of the 3D printer has enabled us to create tangible directly printed 3D objects based on a coded digital design. Here at BOLTENSTERN we have not only used this revolutionary technology to create the world’s first fine jewelry collections but truly believe that 3D printing is the future, and here’s why:
3D printing is more sustainable
Sustainability is an ever-growing concern. 3D printing technology is considered a sustainable manufacturing method, as it reduces waste by only using the material that is needed and keeping excess waste to an absolute minimum.
At BOLTENSTERN, each fine jewelry piece is designed and coded by hand and an algorithm of this intricacy can take months and even years to develop. Direct 3D printing technology allows us to easily preserve the design itself and recreate it according to demand. We can, therefore, avoid overproduction, which results in significantly lower amounts of metal waste compared to traditional casting techniques.
What is more, and is unique in the fine jewelry world, BOLTENSTERN jewelry pieces are directly printed by applying a fine metal powder, layer-by-layer giving us the flexibility to use recycled 18ct. gold rose gold and sterling silver powder.
3D printing is revolutionizing architecture and construction
In the field of architecture, the main benefits of 3D printing are enhanced modeling phases and lowering the cost of project development. Using 3D printing for architecture allows for the quick creation of a tangible model. The impact of a physical object is much stronger than visualization on a computer screen.
At BOLTENSTERN we take pride in the fact that our directly 3D printed fine jewelry pieces are the smallest forms of architecture. Based on mathematical structures and algorithms, this technology enables designers to create unique pieces that simply could not have been manufactured by hand. The process of direct 3D printing enables us to introduce intricate crafting and mobility to each piece.
Expanding the world of fashion through 3D printing
Designers are already experimenting with 3D printing in the design process, whether by printing directly on fabric, adding printed fixtures to pieces, or incorporating flexible materials to eliminate seams.
Similar to our Signature fine jewelry pieces, which are based on personal handwriting or a hand-drawn design, the possibility of advanced personalization in fashion and fine jewelry is equally exciting.
Black Panther the Film displayed Oscar-winning costumes featuring impressive 3D-printed designs. The designs were created in collaboration with Los Angeles-based Austrian architect Julia Körner, who graduated from the same academic degree as our Head of Design and Founder Marie Boltenstern. The duo produced some of their final university pieces together using 3D printing technology, impressed by its’ possibilities they both continued to incorporate it into their work and career.
Shaping the future of fine jewelry design using direct 3D printing technology
Here at BOLTENSTERN we are shaping the future of fine jewelry design - our pieces are coded by hand and crafted by direct 3D printing technology. By combining state-of-the-art technology with traditional goldsmith craftsmanship, which requires immense skill, we can create iconic jewelry pieces and bring fine jewelry customization to a whole new level.
