STL vs 3DM: Which File Should Your Workshop Use?

Every Auric purchase includes an STL, and most include the native Rhino 3DM. They serve very different purposes.

STL: The Production Format

STL is a frozen mesh — perfect for direct printing. It cannot be parametrically edited, but it is universally supported and guaranteed watertight in our files.

3DM: The Editable Master

The Rhino 3DM contains NURBS surfaces, layers for stones and metal, and construction history where applicable. Use it for size grading, stone size changes, or splitting a design for multi-part casting.

Our Recommendation

Print from the STL. Modify from the 3DM. Never export a new STL without re-running a watertight check — one flipped normal can ruin a print run.

Version Discipline

Auric files carry version numbers. When we improve a design, existing owners can re-download the updated files at no cost from their dashboard.