Factory Tour

Every new design begins with detailed sketches, and the handcrafting of a master wax model by skilled artisans. Next, a silver model and production models are created. A sturdy rubber mold is then made which allows for the reproduction of the design many times over. Each rubber mold is pressure injected with hot molten wax. Cooled wax designs are fused to a tree which is placed in a stainless steel can. Liquid plaster of Paris is poured into the cans, surrounding the wax trees. After the plaster is set, the cans are stacked in a kiln for an overnight burnout cycle where the plaster hardens and the wax is completely melted. Hence, this type of burnout is termed, "the lost wax process."

Next, the cavities in the plaster, left by the melted wax, are carefully filled with a mixture of melted gold and alloy. When the gold cools and the cast gold designs are cut from each tree. These jewelry designs are then "tumbled" for an initial polishing. Component leaves are "wriggled" in a special technique to create a frosty finish and engraved with cuts to add a shimmering look. Leaves, grapes and other "findings" or jewelry element are then soldered to the cast designs in a soldering oven. Once all of the gold components are soldered to the cast designs in a soldering oven. Once all of the gold components are soldered in place, the jewelry is tumbled again for additional polishing.

Time is then spent polishing and buffing stages using a buffing wheel. Applying a gray rouge to the wheel to buff out ruff edges. Then a red rouge is used in the "final polishing" stage, which makes the gold smooth to the eye and touch. Each piece is then cleaned and coated with a solution to preserve its beauty for a lifetime.

Gold Rings Gold Pendants Gold Earrings Silver Rings Silver Pendants Silver Earrings Watches Bracelets Wedding Rings

The hand engraving process or "frosty" finish of your Black Hills Gold will pick up soil and grime. If allowed to stay soiled, it will become discolored and will tarnish.