What is 3D scanning? 

3D scanning is the technology used to digitalise small objects including any type of jewellery, wax and gemstone.

3D scanners work by shining different patterns and intensities of light onto an object to be scanned. Then a built-in camera uses specialist software to analyse the hundreds or thousands of measurements generated by the bright and shaded areas projected onto the object in order to create a 3D file.

Different types of scanners

Scanners can be hand-held or fixed, with fixed generally considered the superior mode for jewellery in order to capture a high level of detail on a small object without the requirement for a supremely steady hand. 

Different scanners work in different ways with older technologies functioning through physical touch or via white structured light and with the most up-to-date technologies using lasers or blue structured light. 

Jewellery Replication

By scanning a piece of jewellery it can be re-made as a precise copy of the original in terms of both metal and stones; something which is both difficult and time-consuming for a CAD Designer. There are many reasons why this could be required including reproducing a handmade ring, changing the size of items such as eternity rings and pendants, remaking broken jewellery and copying an existing model in wax or metal to make a range of jewellery offering different thicknesses, stone sizes or other variations.

Everyday Objects

Now anything can easily become a piece of jewellery merely by scanning it, be it a leaf, child's toy or a piece of fruit. 

Opening up a whole range of creative possibilities, designers can now draw inspiration from the most unlikely source in the world surrounding them.

Fitted Wedding Bands

It is increasingly popular for brides to opt for fitted wedding bands around their engagement ring. Using a 3D scanner provides the perfect outline of the engagement ring, allowing a 100% accurate fit on the wedding band designed using 3d software such as Matrix or Rhinojewel.


By scanning stones, a CAD Designer can create 100% accurate settings within their model; the ideal option for fancy cut stones.


3D scanning allows businesses to keep 3D files of all their stock for insurance or valuation purposes. Personal customers can keep a precise record of their precious jewellery pieces so that if the worst should happen, the items can be easily replicated.


Our Solutionix 3DS LED light structured HD scanner can scan pieces up to 100mm in size. Please email us with enquiries about scanning bigger pieces.  The end result is a high quality scan fully prepared for printing or for further work.

We can scan jewellery, diamonds and other stones and miscellaneous objects including plants or insects.

Prices start from £30 including VAT, depending on the size and scanning time of your piece.  Please email us at mail@precisionwax.com for a no-obligation quote.