This paper details an innovative approach to jewelry manufacturing. Some of the innovations involve the use of robotics, automated bagging of diamonds and a process to detect loose-set stones after final finishing that can pinpoint an individual stone for tightening in a multi-stone piece. Others include an automated system for kit building (stones, findings and milled goods) that is a highly productive, error free and 100% dependable and an innovative use of radio frequency identification (RFID) tags that stay with the item beyond production and sale to support an exchange program for the end customer. Research on direct injection of gold and the development of smart jewelry will also be discussed. The results of these time-tested efforts are very positive, empowering us to implement further innovation into our manufacturing processes. These initiatives may benefit the jewelry industry to look at upgrading their technology from a manufacturing perspective.

Author: Santhosh Srinivas