With a design as complex as this I prefer to create some 3D paper models for the client to look at, known as maquettes. My choice is to use the low-tech option of heavy, artist quality paper, and cutting it by hand, rather than modeling clay, wax, laser cutting, or a CAD computer design package. My main reason is that during the process of creating the paper models I can work out what will work and what won't from my drawn designs, and also how easy or difficult it will be to add embellishments once the basic design is created in metal. Really, it is a trial run for creating the real piece in silver or gold without any wasted expense.
Having maquettes available, rather than only drawings or computer images, also makes it easier for the client to both see and feel what the finished piece will be like. The client can also choose which elements they do and don't like, and swap the pieces until they can clearly show me which look they prefer. This can be a very useful exercise, as many people, understandibly, find it difficult to describe the idea in their head in terms that make sense to the person who is making the item, or visualise what the designer is telling them in return! A scale model of the piece gives you both something to talk around.
Not all designs need a model. Some are much more straightforward and easy to describe, and some clients have a very good idea of what they want and examples to show me. But with more complicated designs, having maquettes available means that the client goes away reassured that s/he has seen and felt, and perhaps even tried out on a 'flesh and blood' model, a reasonable facsimile of what their finished piece of jewellery will be like. I suppose, in this way, being a jewellery designer can be a bit like being an architect!
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| Finished waterlily necklace with ruby |
