The art of wax carving in jewelry making is a centuries-old practice, revered for its intricate craftsmanship and unparalleled precision. This meticulous technique begins with the creation of a master model, meticulously sculpted by hand from a block of specialized carving wax. Each curve, contour, and detail is meticulously shaped, refined, and perfected by skilled artisans, breathing life into the envisioned design.
Once the master model is finalized, it serves as the blueprint for the creation of a mold. The wax model is encased in a heat-resistant material, such as plaster or investment, and then subjected to high temperatures, causing the wax to melt away, and leaving behind a cavity in the shape of the original design. It's within this void that the molten metal is carefully poured, filling every crevice and capturing every nuance of the intricate design. After the metal solidifies, the mold is broken away, revealing the raw casting, which undergoes meticulous finishing and polishing to bring out its inherent beauty and luster.
In the creation of these exquisite jewelry pieces, Tita and her team employed this time-honored wax carving technique with the utmost dedication and skill. Using a blend of tumbaga and alpaca metals, renowned for their durability and luxurious sheen, they painstakingly sculpted each element of the design, ensuring every curve and detail is brought to life.