October 2000 Precious Metals & Bench/Metalsmithing Journey into CAD: Solitaire Setting Follow the process of creating a setting through computer-aided design Computer-aided design is one more tool for the jeweler to use. In this project, CAD is used to create a solitaire setting with a high degree of precision. CAD also can be a means to create exclusive lines and custom work quickly and relatively inexpensively. This setting model was created in the CAD environment for direct production of wax models. 1. Create the Shapes Lay out a circle and a square to represent the wire that will form the prong and the sweep path the prong will follow. 2. Sweep Along the Path Sweep the square and circle along the path, making overlapping solids. Create a cutting tool to shape the square wire, leaving a square base and round upper portion. 3. The Smooth Radius The edge segments of the shaped square wire are picked to create a smooth radius. 4. Make Copies Union the square and round wires. By making three copies and joining them, you’ve created an interesting solitaire setting. – by Steven Pollack Steven Pollack is a goldsmith with 10 years of experience creating unique designs. His company, DigitalJeweler,™ offers consulting solutions in 3D solid jewelry modeling. He uses the Sanders ModelMakerII and 3D Systems Thermojet Rapid Prototyper. For more information, go to www.digitaljeweler.com.