Was: How hard is engraving to do?
I really think you are off the mark when you imply that the tool will always determine the result.
I can’t imagine what part of my post gave you that impression. This
is old subject. CAD/CAM versus handmade. It is not directly related
to the engraving but I do have few thoughts on a subject.
An article of jewellery comprised of many components. There are
and metals; proper use of tools; properly applied
techniques; appropriate design; and the last but not the least is the
talent. Theoretically if we combine the best of everything, we have a
masterpiece. However this is remarkably rare.
I have a point of view that the only variations which are acceptable
are metal, and talent. Valuable gemstones can be used with
inexpensive metals and vise versa. One does not have to have talent
equitable to Leonardo de Vinci to be a successful jewellery designer,
but I do require appropriate design and correct use of tools and
technique.
To use CAD/CAM as a tool to create an article a jewellery, the
design must take into account the strong and weak point of CAD/CAM
process. I have no problem when used that way.
I start having problems when CAD/CAM is used to imitate the results
obtainable with traditional metalsmithing techniques. The results are
always inferior to the real article. It has nothing to do with
operator experience and abilities. It has to do with the technique
itself. Even the most talented musician in a world cannot make drum
to sound like a piano and the same is true about CAD/CAM. Traditional
techniques were developed to compensate for the human deficiencies. I
can never drill as straight as drill press or shape as precise as
laser unit can. However I can harmonize these irregularities. I can
make them to look attractive. In essence I can create a naturally
looking object similar to a flower. If one studies a flower it is far
from perfection but in its own unique way it is beautiful. Handmade
jewellery possesses this property. CAD/CAM product probably exceeds
handmade jewellery in every way except looking natural and to some
people it is the most important property there is.
Leonid Surpin