TiaraCAD

What TiaraCAD is

TiaraCAD is jewellery CAD software for designing rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings and custom diamond jewellery. It works as a plugin for Rhino, and Rhino 8 is required to evaluate it. TiaraCAD describes its design approach as “Stone-First”: the design builds metal around the stone and generates only the metal needed for that design. Its tools include gem settings, modular design, detailing and support for keeping multiple files open. Users can import company gem charts, metal density charts and setting parameters for default use.

TiaraCAD can create a bill of material report for a quotation in one click. Release notes say version 2.6.5 added the ability to import JewelCAD files. It is offered for Windows and macOS, and the features page says TiaraCAD 2.0 works natively on macOS. There is no free plan, but users can download and install a 15-day evaluation. Continuous internet access is not required; license validation requires an internet connection once, or once every 14 days with Cloud Licensing. The listed one-time plans are $995, paid once for Rhino 8 users, $1,590, paid once with a Rhino 8 Commercial Upgrade, and $1,990, paid once with Rhino 8 Commercial. The first option requires a Rhino 8 license, while the commercial license option is described as perpetual.

Who it suits

TiaraCAD suits jewellery designers who work in Rhino and need tools for stone settings, modular design, detailing and material reports. The FAQ says a basic understanding of Rhino is sufficient and that Grasshopper knowledge is not required.

Limits

There is no free plan; the evaluation period lasts 15 days. The listed Rhino 8 users plan requires a Rhino 8 license.

Getting started

1. Visit the TiaraCAD website.
2. Download the Windows or Mac OS version.
3. Install Rhino 8, which is required to evaluate TiaraCAD.
4. Install TiaraCAD and use the 15-day evaluation.
5. Choose a listed one-time plan if you want to continue using it.

Verdict

Choose TiaraCAD if you design jewellery in Rhino and want stone setting tools, configurable charts and one-click material reports. The 15-day evaluation lets you assess it before buying. Look elsewhere if you need a free plan or cannot use Rhino 8.