What Is Sand Cast Jewellery?

Sand casting is an ancient technique of making jewellery that originated in ancient China and Egypt and is still commonly used today. This process is the technique of using jewellers sand such as Delft clay, Red clay or /and beach sand is used to create a mould. An impression is then made using a wax model or any small hard object such as a shell, existing ring, twig, button etc. Molten metal is then heated and poured into the mould forming a solid sterling silver or gold piece.
These moulds can only be used once which makes each piece truly one of a kind.
Sand casting is done with either sand directly from the beach or with jewellers sand 'Delft Clay'. A mould is made from the sand using a aluminium flask and a imprint is created using a wax carved design, ring, seashell etc. The metal is then heated and poured into the mould filling the void and crating a replica of the object used to create the mould 

Cast in place gemstones

Casting stones in place is one of my favorite types of casting. After creating the mould gemstones are placed inside the mould and molten melt is poured in wrapping around the stones securing them in place. This gives the ring an organic and unique  stone placement/ look. The gemstones can sometimes move, crack and fallout which makes opening the mould and seeing a successful cast even more rewarding.
The stones that are suitable to cast in place are gemstones that are 7.5 or higher on the MOHS scale of hardness such as sapphires, rubies, rough, diamonds, lab grown and synthetic. 

Why do I prefer to cast?

There are so many reasons I love and prefer sand casting over more traditional methods. The main reason is that I can cast my jewellery in-house as opposed to sending wax models off to a casting house. This also gives me the opportunity to repurpose heirloom, broken or jewellery that doesn't suit peoples current style. Sand cast jewellery has such a beautiful and unique texture that is unique to that piece. I love organic objects such as shells and using this process you can sand cast these objects and pick quite a lot of detail. This also allows me to sand cast shells or any small object that may be sentimental and then it into a pendant, ring or charm.  

 

 

  Using beach sand 

There are two different ways that I use beach sand to create my jewellery that gives it my signature texture and look. I can sprinkle a small amount of sand in the mould or I can create a mould entirely from sand. I had not seen his unique technique done before and it took me quite some time to develop and master. Casting directly into beach sand gives a more rustic and organic look on each piece. Adding sand to my designs gives people the opportunity to personalise their pieces by sending sand from sentimental locations. 
 
 

 

 

 

 

 

How can you personalise and add sentimental value to your jewellery?

- Sand from a sentimental location

- Ashes from loved ones or pets

- Birthstones

- Using sentimental, heirloom, unworn or broken jewellery

- Collecting a shell and sending it to me to use as a mould and cast it into a pendant or ring (This can work with any small hard object such as buttons, shells, twigs etc)

What is the difference between custom and bespoke jewellery?

Custom jewellery is a custom version of a design that is already offered with minor tweaks such as band width, shape, gemstone etc you will be shown 2 versions of the new design. 

Bespoke jewellery is a completely new design, this involves quite a bit of time designing, creating a new wax model and sourcing gemstones. You will be shown multiple versions in wax until you are happy with the final design before the item is cast in metal. 

For bespoke pieces I encourage sending inspiration pictures and your own drawings of what you want the piece to look like. Please note I will not copy another artist or jewellers work.

With both custom and bespoke jewellery you will be heavily involved in the design process throughout the whole process with photo and video updates. 

How much does it cost?

Customs: Start at $750 for silver and $1500 for gold.

Bespoke: start at $1200 for sterling silver and $2500 for gold.
Sand casting shell or small object starts at $550.

Remodels: typically start from $950, with most projects ranging between $1,200 – $2,500+ depending on complexity.

Simple remodels: $950–$1,200

Standard remodels: $1,200–$2,000

Complex/custom: $2,000–$3,000+

Factors that influence pricing include:

  • Design complexity and level of customisation
  • Time required to handcraft the new piece
  • If stones are being set and many
  • Condition and type of existing material
  • Additional materials needing to be added (extra metal is charged per gram)

Why do I ask what your budget is?

I ask for your budget so I can guide you towards options that are realistic and achievable for you. It’s not so I can spend every dollar of your budget.

Custom jewellery can vary enormously in price depending on the materials, gemstones and design complexity. Knowing your budget helps me recommend the right stones, metal, settings, and design options from the beginning, rather than suggesting something that ends up being well outside what you’d like to spend.

For example, if your budget is $1500, I’m not going to source or recommend a $700 gemstone set in 18ct gold with an elaborate custom setting. Instead, I’ll suggest options that work beautifully within your budget and help you get the best possible result for your investment.

Can I use my old gold/ silver as credit ?

Yes!

The way this works is when you send the gold or silver I will asses it and have it tested and a price will be offered that reflects the current price. 

This is paid to you as credit for your , made to order, ready to ship, custom piece, store credit or cash (deposited via bank transfer, PayPal or pay ID)

More information about The Gold & Silver Recycling Program here

What happens after form is submitted?

Once your inquiry is submitted, we’ll review your project details, including the type of custom work requested, reference materials, timeline, and budget expectations. We’ll then contact you via email to discuss feasibility, answer any questions, and provide a rough price estimate. If we’re a good fit for your project, we’ll outline the next steps and begin the commissioning process.

How long will it take?

The current turn around time is between 8-12+ weeks depending on materials required, complexity of the piece and etc. 

Going forward, I won’t be working within fixed timeframes unless it’s for something with a clear deadline (like a wedding or special event). Otherwise, I want to allow the creative process the space it needs — while still making sure things move forward in a much more consistent and structured way than before. sometimes a piece can take a day and other times it an take months depending on the design and level of details involved . Jewellery is something that is made to last a lifetime and I believe it deserves patience, care and intention - not to be rushed.

Custom/bespoke Order Cancellation Policy

Please note that all bespoke orders are handmade to your specifications and involve significant time and materials. If you choose to cancel your custom order after work has commenced—such as wax modelling, design sketches, or multiple design revisions—your deposit will not be refunded. This policy covers the time, resources, and creative effort already invested in your piece.

We appreciate your understanding and support of slow, thoughtful craftsmanship.

Size

Please refer to sizing chart here  it is up to you to provide the correct size. If the wrong size if provided then there will be a resize or remake fee. Resizing is $100 a total remake of the ring starts at $750

What happens to the left over gold and gemstones from remodelling

Any left over gold or gemstones removed from old jewellery sent in to be remodelled is either:

1- Sent back

2- Purchased and used as credit towards the final price

Nothing is kept and there is full transparency throughout he process. I don't often buy gemstones only solid gold or silver.

Your Custom Piece Starts Here

This is an expression of interest form to get your custom jewellery journey started. Once I know a little more about your idea, I’ll guide you to the best next step—whether that’s email, a short phone or Zoom chat, or a full consultation.

Detailed design consultations via zoom for bespoke projects are $100 and include personalised design advice, concept development, wax models, sourcing quotes on gemstones/ materials and sketches where required. This fee is credited toward your final order if you proceed.

Custom & Bespoke Jewellery with Nadine

Creating a unique piece of jewellery is a journey – and you’ll be involved every step of the way. From your first consultation to the final delivery, Nadine ensures your vision comes to life with precision, care, and artistry.

Stage 1: Consultation

Book a 30 minute Zoom consultation with Nadine to discuss your ideas, share inspiration, and explore design possibilities. During this session, we will:

  • Discuss the story behind the piece
  • Sketch rough ideas
  • Discuss materials, styles, and gemstones
  • Discuss if you are using old jewellery, gemstones, sand or ashes
  • Talk through rough pricing

This is your opportunity to refine your vision and set the foundation for your custom piece.

Stage 2: Deposit & Remodelling Submissions (if applicable)

Once your design is confirmed, a deposit of $250 secures your spot (This comes off the final amount).

For remodelling projects:

  • Please send in any old jewellery, gemstones, or materials to be incorporated
  • Items must be received before the wax model is created

This ensures the wax model accurately reflects the final design and materials. The stones are removed, metal tested and accurate weights

Stage 3: Wax Model Creation & Gold/Silver Estimates

A wax model of your piece is created – this allows us to finalise weights, materials, and design details. Exact amount of metal needed wont be known until the wax model is crated.

For remodelling projects paid with gold or silver:

  • After the wax model is created, we can provide estimates of how much gold or silver will be required and how much may be leftover
  • Final amounts cannot be confirmed until the piece is actually cast

You’ll be closely involved during this stage, with:

  • Updates via WattsApp
  • Photos and videos of the wax model
  • Feedback opportunities to refine the piece

Casting wont happen until you are happy with the wax model. There is the option to have the wax model sent to you or come into the studio to make sure it fits and you are 100% happy with it.

Stage 4: Final Approval & Invoice

Once the wax model is approved, the final invoice is provided. At this point, 50% of the invoice is required to begin production.

Stage 5: Casting, Stone Setting & Production

With the deposit received, your piece moves into full production, including:

  • Casting in your chosen metal
  • Stone setting and finishing
  • Regular updates with photos and videos so you can watch your piece come to life.

Your piece is cast using traditional sand casting techniques, preserving the raw, organic details of the original carving.

Stage 6: Final Approval & Delivery

Once complete, you’ll receive detailed photos and videos for final approval. The remaining balance of the invoice is then paid, and your custom piece is delivered, ready to wear and treasure.

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Shoreline Solitare Ring

Custom Shoreline Ring using clients sentimental silver, gold and diamond.

"The ring arrived and it is SPECTACULAR!! I Love it so much!! Thank you Nadine The ring brings out how beautiful the diamond is!" - Andy

Sand Band

Wedding band made using sand collected from the beach the couple first met.

"Such a meaningful ring, my husband LOVED IT! Nadine was a pleasure to work with" - Jen

Memorial Shoreline Ring

Memorial Shoreline Ring using my clients sentimental gold, gemstone and ashes from her grandfather to add texture to the yellow gold section of the ring.

"For a while I have been wanting to turn my Grandads ashes into something really meaningful.A few months back I finally found the right person to that, I fell in love with Nadine’s work at the Renegade Markets & knew instantly she was the right person for the job, when I saw her beautifully hand crafted jewellery. I saw her shoreline collection, which represented the ocean and sand. This was fitting for me because my Grandad took me to the beach every summer holiday when I was a child. I had some old jewellery & the gemstone (& of course Grandads ashes) I wanted to use. Nadine has brought my vision to life. I now have a bit of him everywhere I go, in this ring - imprinted, the way he imprinted me & my life.Nadine I am so thankful I met you and what you have created for me is truly more than I could ever imagine. Thank you so so much. I am forever grateful & I cannot highly recommend enough if I tried.This ring is half white gold & half yellow gold. The gemstone is an Aquamarine, my Grandad’s birthstone.

Custom Sand Band

This gold custom Sand Band featuring a mixture of emralds, rubies and diamonds was made using a collection of my clients gold that did not suit her current style.

" Perfect, Nadine created the perfect ring which incorporated sentimental jewellery into a beautiful piece that will be treasured and worn daily. The whole process from start to finish was easy. Nadine answered all of my crazy questions and had beautiful ideas. I was able to trust her vision every step of the way. I am blown away with the result" - Linda