local shop sends custom platinum work out for casting...

[BigToque]

Is this common?

Also, if it matters, how does casting compare to forging? Is either better or worse for a ring? (or does nobody forge rings and I''m thinking of something else?)

 

[jaz464]

Many jewelers send out the wax to be cast. This is very common.

Can''t comment on the forging, sorry.

 

[strmrdr]

yep its common.
The good casting machines start at $20000.00 and go up from there.
There is a quality difference between that and the results from hand poured or the $5000 bench top machines.
My local guy sends his out too.
He doesnt do enough of them to make the machine pay for itself quick enough.
At $200 a cast it costs him for one of pieces $20k is a lot of rings plus the upkeep and maintenance isnt cheap either.