For the final step of my journey in furthering my knowledge on 3D printed jewelry design, I had originally hoped to submit a completed design file to Shapeways for printing but since I was not able to complete the prior steps necessary in doing this, I decided to do some further research on what 3D printing offers jewelry retailers/manufacturers.
In conducting this research I came across some interesting websites. The first one I want to share is a website for a company called JewelryTHIS. This is a company based out of Barbados that works to act as a middleman between jewelry designers and jewelers/manufacturers. The company maintains a database of 3D jewelry design files so that (1) designers can upload their files and earn royalties if their design is used and (2) jewelers/manufacturers can work with over 1000 designers rather than a limited few. Individuals can also browse through the design database and select an item for purchase.
3DBull.com is another company that works to bring designers and jewelry manufacturers/retailers together. Designers can upload their design files to this website and manufacturers/retailers are able to purchase these design files. Here is an interesting video on their website showing how this business model reduce the costs involved in custom made jewelry.
Sources:
https://www.jewelrythis.com
http://www.3dbull.com