3D Ring Scanning for Perfectly Matching Wedding Rings
Creating a wedding ring that fits neatly beside an existing engagement ring can require more than traditional measurements. Curved settings, low-set diamonds, raised claws and decorative bands can all affect how two rings sit together.
At Polished Diamonds, we use precision 3D ring scanning and computer-aided design (CAD) to create a detailed digital model of an existing ring. Our jewellery designers can then use this model to design a custom wedding ring, eternity ring or anniversary ring that follows its shape, proportions and setting.
This process helps us design a more accurate ring while also allowing you to see how the completed set may look before manufacturing begins.
What Is 3D Ring Scanning?
3D ring scanning creates an accurate digital model of an existing engagement ring so a wedding ring can be designed to follow its shape, setting and contours. Polished Diamonds imports the scan into CAD jewellery software and designs the new ring around the original piece.
Rather than relying only on photographs or measurements taken with hand tools, scanning records the three-dimensional form of the ring. This gives our designers a useful digital reference for its:
- Band width and depth
- Setting height
- Side profile
- Diamond placement
- Curves and contours
- Claws, shoulders and under-setting
- Areas where another ring may touch or overlap
The resulting scan can be imported into our CAD jewellery design software. We then design the new ring around the dimensions and profile of the existing piece.
Although the scan provides a highly detailed design reference, the completed ring is also checked and finished by an experienced jeweller to confirm the intended alignment and clearance.
Why Scan an Engagement Ring?
Many engagement rings are not completely straight along the side of the setting. A centre diamond, halo, basket or low-profile setting may extend into the area where a wedding ring would normally sit.
Without accounting for these details, a standard wedding ring may:
- Leave an uneven gap
- Rub against the engagement ring
- Sit at an angle
- Press against claws or diamond settings
- Fail to align with diamonds in the engagement ring band
A digital scan gives our jewellery designers more information about these potential contact points. We can then determine whether the wedding ring should be straight, curved, contoured or shaped around the engagement ring.
Some couples prefer their rings to sit completely flush. Others like a small, deliberate gap between them. The scanning and CAD process allows both options to be assessed before the new ring is made. Couples comparing different styles can also read our guide to choosing the perfect wedding ring.
How Our 3D Ring Scanning Process Works
1. We inspect your existing ring
Before scanning, our team examines the engagement ring and discusses the type of matching ring you would like.
We consider your preferred metal, ring width, diamond coverage and whether you want the rings to sit flush or have a small space between them.
2. Your ring is cleaned and scanned
We normally require the existing ring for approximately three to four days. During this time, it can be professionally cleaned before a detailed digital copy is created.
The scan records the external form and profile of the ring. It does not damage or permanently alter the jewellery.
3. We create the matching ring in CAD
Our jewellery designers import the digital model into CAD software and design the new ring around it.
This allows us to examine the two rings together from multiple angles. We can check clearances, contact points, setting heights and the alignment of decorative features or diamonds.
4. You review the design
We can provide detailed CAD images showing how the proposed ring is expected to sit beside your existing jewellery.
At this stage, adjustments can be made to the shape, width, diamond layout or spacing before manufacturing begins.
5. Your ring is made
Once the design has been approved, the matching ring is produced by our New Zealand jewellery team and checked against the agreed CAD design.
Matching Diamond Placement
Scanning is particularly useful when the engagement ring already contains diamonds set into its band.
For example, the digital model may help us determine whether a matching eternity or diamond wedding ring requires five, six or more stones to create a balanced appearance. It can also help align the position and coverage of the new diamonds with those in the engagement ring.
This creates a more cohesive bridal ring set rather than two rings that merely look similar when viewed separately.
Can We Scan an Older or Pre-Owned Ring?
Yes. The process can be used for many existing engagement rings, including rings purchased from another jeweller, inherited jewellery and older designs that may not have original CAD files available.
The condition of the ring will be inspected first. If claws are worn, stones are loose or the band requires repair, we may recommend completing this work before using the ring as the reference for a new design.
What Rings Can Be Designed from a 3D Scan?
A digital scan can assist with the design of several types of matching jewellery, including:
- Custom wedding rings
- Contoured wedding bands
- Diamond wedding rings
- Eternity rings
- Anniversary rings
- Replacement rings
- Stacking rings
- Redesigned bridal sets
The process is especially valuable for detailed engagement rings, shaped settings and designs where an ordinary straight band may not provide the desired fit.
Precision Jewellery Design in New Zealand
Polished Diamonds combines 3D scanning, CAD modelling and experienced jewellery manufacturing to create rings designed around your existing jewellery.
Bring your engagement ring into a Polished Diamonds studio in Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch for an initial assessment. Our jewellery designers can examine the setting, discuss how closely you would like the rings to sit and advise whether 3D scanning is suitable for your matching wedding-ring design. No appointment is required, although booking ahead can help ensure a designer is available.
Frequently Asked Questions About 3D Ring Scanning
No. The process records the external shape and dimensions of the jewellery without permanently altering it.
We normally require the ring for approximately three to four days to complete the cleaning, scanning and digital modelling process.
A flush fit depends on the shape and height of the engagement ring setting. The scan allows us to assess the available space and design either a flush-fitting ring or an intentional gap, depending on your preference.
Yes. In many cases, we can scan an existing ring even when it was purchased elsewhere or no original design files are available.
Yes. Your CAD design can include natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds or selected coloured gemstones. Diamond size, spacing and coverage can be planned to complement the existing engagement ring.
3D RING SCANNING: Key Takeaways
- 3D ring scanning creates an accurate digital model of an engagement ring to design a perfectly matching wedding ring.
- The process allows for precise adjustments and visualisation of how the rings will sit together before manufacturing begins.
- Polished Diamonds uses CAD software to incorporate detailed scans, ensuring an ideal fit between the rings.
- Scanning accommodates various ring styles and conditions, including pre-owned or inherited rings.
- This method supports the design of custom, contoured, or eternity rings, enhancing the overall bridal set coherence.
