In the case of a ring, you remove everything that doesn't look like a ring and then the wax mold is coated with a high temperature plaster. It is then heated and as the wax melts it leaves the plaster mold. Hot metal is then injected inside using a centrifugal casting machine creating a metal duplicate of the wax model. The second is Fabricating. This is much the way a Blacksmith molds metal, only a Goldsmith does it on a much smaller scale.
Precious metal is shaped, soldered, and polished to form the desired piece.
Both techniques can be used to create a truly unique piece or future family heirloom. In the past Michael has performed trade work for large companies including Neiman-Marcus and Slavicks Jewelers. He has created jewelry for the Pageant of Masters and the Sawdust Festival, both of which are annual events in Laguna Beach, California. Michael's wife Karen has also taken an interest in the family business and has completed her studies with the Gemological Institute of America. This marks the completion of her four year Graduate Gemologist Degree.