From the automotive industry to the medical and aviation sectors, 3D printing has revolutionized the manufacturing process over the last few years.
Yet, one of the oldest markets for 3D printing is the jewelry industry. In fact, the 3D printed jewelry industry has generated $11 billion in 2020. And it is expected to grow by 21% by 2024.
Indeed, due to the multiple benefits of 3D printing and the rapidly evolving technology, the sector is experiencing a growing interest from consumers and retailers.
Therefore, exciting times lie ahead for the industry. In this article, we’ll highlight three reasons why 3D printed jewelry is, without a doubt, the future of the jewelry industry.
Sustainability
Sustainability is a growing concern among consumers. According to a recent study, almost 80% of consumers say sustainability is important to them. What’s more, 70% of them are willing to pay a premium for ‘’greener’’ products. As a result, providing customers with products made using more sustainable processes can be a clear advantage for companies. And as sustainability concerns keep driving purchasing decisions, it could even become a no-brainer.
Now, 3D printed jewelry reduces waste by only using the amount of material needed. It also enables manufacturers to recycle materials easily and avoid overproduction. This way, they’re able to keep excessive waste to the minimum.
Therefore, by allowing for a more sustainable production process, 3D printed jewelry is poised to become the future norm.
Personalization
Mass-produced jewelry hasn’t been around for long. In fact, before the 20th century, every piece of jewelry was tailored to its wearer.
Yet, while mass-produced jewelry isn’t going anywhere, the ever-growing need for customized products is one of the biggest trends in the 21st century. Indeed, 80% of consumers want brands to provide them with customized experiences or products. Besides, 63% expect personalization as a standard of service. The reality is that consumers are increasingly looking for unique products made for them.
As a result, many retailers are harnessing the trend and offer customized and on-demand jewelry products.
And 3D jewelry printing has emerged as the ideal solution to accommodate these shifting preferences. Indeed, 3D jewelry printing allows retailers to provide bespoke and perfectly sized pieces to their clients quickly. Thanks to digital tools, customers can even design their pieces themselves and visualize what they will look like before ordering them.
As consumers favor artisanal approaches, craftsmanship, and unique handmade pieces, 3D printing technology will most likely shape the jewelry industry in the future.
Creativity
3D printing allows retailers to create forms and shapes that would otherwise be impossible to create using conventional means. Additive manufacturing provides a level of freedom in jewelry’s design that was impossible to reach until now. For instance, with 3D printing, jewelers can now offer hollow bracelets or modular jewelry.
They can also turn old family jewels that hold sentimental value to a customer into contemporary pieces.
This level of creativity will continue to appeal to a growing number of consumers looking for original pieces.
As discussed in this post, digital manufacturing using 3D printing is quickly reshaping the jewelry industry. As new generations continue to seek custom-made and on-demand products and technology evolve, designers will increasingly harness digital tools and provide customers with unique pieces.
Retailers and wholesalers need to adapt and seize this new opportunity to grow their clientele and create a loyal customer base.
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