SIAN Design Generates Modern Fine Jewelry Using Algorithms

Technology is becoming increasingly prevalent in the design world in ways we thought were impossible and/or strange in concept. 3D-printed furniture, augmented reality retail stores, and AI-powered coffee makers are just a few examples of how technology moves the proverbial goal post so that what once might have been a little odd now becomes the new industry standard. For SIAN Design, technology has become integral in what used to be a very analogue and manual craft of jewelry design. Utilizing computer algorithms and virtual 3D modeling, SIAN generates precisely calculated fine jewelry defined by delicate lattices and geometric details.

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Woman with straight brown hair and bangs, wearing a beige turtleneck and a hoop earring, looking pensively to the side

SIAN is founded by husband and wife duo Antonia Frey-Vorhammer and Simon Vorhammer. The two translated their architectural expertise and background into designing jewelry that mirrors their highly intricate and geometric projects. In the below exclusive, Antonia explains in great detail exactly how every SIAN piece comes to life:

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At SIAN, the integration of digital and analogue methods is the central aspect of our creative process.

For each design, we establish a computer algorithm that defines the logic and geometrical dependencies among all elements. Initially, this method is time-intensive, but allows us to explore numerous variants of complex geometrical formations through fast iterations by means of rapid prototyping.

The algorithm continuously generates and updates a virtual 3D model, accurately representing the final physical form with 100% precision. Our tight collaboration with experts in additive fabrication and goldsmithing empowers us to stretch the boundaries of technical feasibility and craft pieces of jewelery that transcend traditional methods.

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Woman with dark hair wearing a black sleeveless top and a silver bracelet, resting her chin on her arm, looking contemplative

During the production process, every object is initially constructed layer by layer using 3D printing with a special wax. This wax prototype is then used to create a precise negative mold from fine gypsum. Subsequently, the molten precious metal is poured into this mold in the next step.

As both the wax and the plaster are expended with each use, this process is commonly referred to as “lost wax printing and casting.” Each piece of jewelry is then meticulously refined by our goldsmith through manual craftsmanship, resulting in a distinctive and lively surface texture.

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