Kerf vs TiaraCAD

Kerf is a free, open-source CAD workspace that runs on the user's own machine and supports work across 37 engineering domains. Users can describe design changes in plain language or use the Python kerf-sdk and JSON-RPC API. Mechanical design tools include constraint-based sketching, parametric feature history, validated B-rep geometry, drawings, and persistent face references. The workspace also includes FEM analysis, topology optimization, SPICE and RF analysis, CAM toolpaths, and G-code output. Listed outputs include STEP, STL, 3MF, IFC4, Gerber, PDF, DXF, BOM CSV, Touchstone, GDS-II, and firmware binaries. The site describes workflows for mechanical and electronics engineers, BIM architects, jewelry designers, and other engineering users. Kerf runs locally without accounts and keeps Git history for file revisions. Workshop content can be used offline once pinned. Installation options include source or Docker, with release archives listed for macOS arm64, macOS x64, and Linux x64; source installation requires Python 3.11 or later. The chat workflow can use a bring-your-own LLM; no bundled model or paid hosted plan is listed.

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. The product describes its design approach as “Stone-First,” building metal around a stone and generating only the metal required by the design. Its tools include gem settings, modular design, detailing, and support for multiple open files. Users can import company gem charts, metal density charts, and setting parameters for default use. TiaraCAD can generate a bill of material report for a quotation in one click, and release notes say version 2.6.5 added JewelCAD file import. It is offered for macOS and Windows; the features page says TiaraCAD 2.0 works natively on macOS. A 15-day evaluation is available, with no free plan. Continuous internet access is not required, though license validation needs an internet connection once, or once every 14 days with Cloud Licensing. Listed one-time plans include TiaraCAD 2 for Rhino 8 users at $995, paid once, and TiaraCAD 2 with Rhino 8 Commercial at $1,990, paid once.