Discover the differences in their production methods plus characteristics and benefits of each.
Die-struck and metal molds are two of the most common methods used in the production of precious metal jewelry findings. Both methods have their own characteristics and advantages, and the choice between the two will depend on the specific requirements of the jewelry piece being manufactured.
Many bench jewelers gravitate to die-struck findings because of their density, durability, and strength. The intense pressures of die striking result in completely porosity-free items. This lack of porosity and permeability translates into a heightened ability to resist corrosion.
Die-struck jewelry polishes quickly and retains its polish longer. With a metal mold, the shape of the part will be created within or inside the mold via a liquid or molten material being poured into the mold.
Let’s dive into the methods utilized to create die-struck and metal mold findings plus the characteristics and benefits of each.
Main Process Differences
Die-Struck pieces are the result of the die striking manufacturing process, in which powerful drop hammers or presses strike the workpiece, forging it into its desired shape.
Metal Mold pieces are the result of the casting process, in which the item is formed by pouring metal into an investment mold. These plastic patterns are superior to wax patterns by being smoother, crisper, and more stable.
Two of our experts, Eddie LeBlanc and James Douet, help to break down the differences between these two methods.
Eddie LeBlanc
Director of Machine Tool Operations and Die Striking
James Douet
Director of Metal Mold Engineering
Die Striking
The modern industrial equivalent of forging, die striking is a manufacturing method that involves the forceful compression of a workpiece between two steel molds called dies. The die striking process increases the density of the product by tightening its molecular structure, resulting in pieces with enhanced durability, strength, and density.
Die-struck findings hold stones with improved security over time, and their porosity-free composition leads to an exceptionally resilient polish. At Stuller, our skilled artisans die strike findings using a custom-made steel hub (male pattern), steel master die (female pattern), and working die (duplicate of the master die).
Die striking can be more expensive and time consuming than other methods, as it requires custom-made dies for each design.
Brief Glossary of Die Striking Terms
- Die: In manufacturing, a heat resistant device used to shape material; in jewelry striking specifically, a heat-resistant steel block used to compress and shape metal.
- Hub: A die on which a steel engraver imprints an initial design; used to stamp the desired shape into a steel blank which is then known as the master die.
- Master Die: A female die imprinted with the piece’s design; used as the model for working dies; carefully preserved for future use.
- Working Die: A working duplicate of the master die; struck against the hub to compress the workpiece.
- Workpiece: In die striking, the piece of molten metal repeatedly struck and compressed into form between heat-resistant dies.
Die Striking Characteristics
Die-struck pieces have greater density, hardness, and toughness than metal mold pieces. They are also more resistant to corrosion and will hold polish longer.
Stuller’s die-struck findings assortment includes settings, shanks, trims, earrings, earring components, clasps, jump and split rings, bails, necklace centers, pendants, chain components, dangles and links, and more.
Metal Mold Engineering
Our modeling and metal mold engineering departments are involved in creating the first prototypes of designs that are used in innovative manufacturing techniques which help us efficiently mass produce our high-volume items — typically findings and settings. Using MatrixGold® or another CAD design software, our metal mold engineering department creates the 3D models that will support in the development of the metal mold.
Metal molds are made out of brass, a cost-effective metal that can easily be repaired. Unlike rubber molds that are injected with wax, brass molds are injected with plastic, which produces a more precise product that is great for small-sized, high-volume components.
Metal Mold Characteristics
Metal mold pieces are perfect for consistency and precision. They allow for more intricate designs than die striking while generally being less expensive. Color changes are available by special request.
Stuller’s metal mold findings assortment includes settings, shanks, trims, earrings, earring components, clasps, jump and split rings, bails, necklace centers, pendants, chain components, dangles and links, and more.
We’re Here For You
Stuller has an incredible breadth of both die-struck and metal mold product for you to choose from, and we’re always here to lend a helping hand on your journey in the jewelry industry. If you have any technical questions or need support, you can reach our Tools Tech Team at 1-800-877-7777, extension 4300.