Optimising Amber Processing Using 3D Scanning: New Perspectives in Cultural Heritage

Abstract

This article aims to present the practical and functional application of advanced 3D scanning technologies in the process of designing products made of amber. The processing of amber is complex and expensive because mass or serial production is not possible. Moreover, processing is challenging because each product is treated as unique and requires individual handling. The optimisation process is illustrated using the example of amber blocks that were scanned to obtain virtual 3D models. The scope of this work includes the characterisation of three-dimensional jewellery design processes, along with a description of a wide range of methods and functions used in computer-aided jewellery design. The use of computer-aided design software for developing virtual models of decorative products used in goldsmithing is described in this paper. The obtained sets of models underwent engineering analysis using Boolean algebra and data science calculations. In this way, a design methodology was developed regarding the selection of input material as the unprocessed stone for jewellery modelling. The developed method allows for the minimisation of material waste, which is associated with reducing costs in the processing of amber. This article also describes the differences between previous traditional methods and the authors’ proprietary method. The proposed methodology can be implemented in jewellery workshops specialising in the processing of materials.