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# 3D-Printed Animal Skulls
These Skeletal Reproductions are Based on Scans of Original Specimens

By Katherine Pendrill | Published 2015-09-11 | Art & Design
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/original-specimens
References: [kickstarter](https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/fireandbone/fire-and-bone-3-tiny-digitally-captured-metal-anim?ref=category) & [fireandbone](http://www.fireandbone.com/)

'Fire & Bone' is producing a line of 3D-printed animal skulls derived from high-definition scans of original specimens. Although it may seem grim, many people are fascinated by the beauty and structure of animal skulls. This company uses 3D printing to give consumers a glimpse of realistic skeletal remains.

The company specializes in designing true-to-life jewelry and collectibles derived from real animal remains. To create the [miniature skull replicas](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/dinosaur-fossils-triceratops-skull), the designers rely on high-definition scans of original specimens. These skulls are then digitized and manufactured using a [3D printer](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/haibu). To give the products a sleek finish, the skulls are then cast in metal. Each of the pieces is available as a pendant or a collectible.

Although skull-inspired accessories may not be for everyone, the 3D-printed animal skulls are perfect for anyone who is fascinated by skeletons.

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 3.4/10
- Popularity: 68% | Activity: 26% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women
- Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X
- Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/design)

## Key Themes

### What's Driving This Trend

- **Animal Skull Reproductions:** The creation of 3D-printed animal skull replicas offers a new avenue for taxidermy and ornamental art.
- **High-definition Scanning Technology:** The use of high-definition scans improves the accuracy of 3D-printed animal skulls and may disrupt the field of paleontology.
- **Digitally Manufactured Collectibles:** The ability to create real-life replicas of animal skulls through 3D-printing and digitization opens up new opportunities for collecting and preservation.

### Who This Affects Most

- **Taxidermy:** The use of 3D-printed animal skulls in taxidermy offers a more sustainable and ethical alternative to traditional taxidermy methods.
- **Jewelry and Accessories:** Incorporating 3D-printed animal skull replicas into jewelry and accessories offers a unique and customizable option for jewelry designers.
- **Paleontology:** The use of high-definition scanning and 3D-printing technology in creating realistic animal skull replicas could revolutionize the process of studying and restoring fossils.

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