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Dates: Saturday & Sunday, April 17 - 18, from 10 am to 4 pm
Fee: $ 225/discount with member code
Ages: 18+
Level: Beginner/Intermediate
Sessions: 2
Instructor: Tamara Kelly
Location: Schack Art Center, Metalsmithing Studio
Turn your cabochon collection into wearable art! Spend a full weekend learning traditional silversmithing techniques as you design and create a custom sterling silver ring or pendant built around your own gemstone.
Whether you're a rockhound, lapidary artist, or gemstone collector, this workshop is a great opportunity to transform a favorite stone into a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry. Under the guidance of jeweler Tamara Kelly, you'll learn to design, fabricate, and torch-solder a custom setting tailored to the unique shape and dimensions of your stone.
What You'll Learn
Day 1 – Metalwork & Texturing: Begin by evaluating your stones and sketching your jewelry design. Learn foundational metalworking techniques, including measuring, sawing, shaping, and texturing sterling silver. Experiment with hammers, reticulation, and metal fusion to create distinctive details for your piece.
Day 2 – Soldering & Stone Setting: Build on your design with hands-on torch work and precision fabrication. Learn to create a custom bezel setting that fits your stone, solder your jewelry components, and securely set your gemstone using traditional silversmithing tools. Finish your piece with filing, finishing, and professional polishing techniques.
By the end of the weekend, you'll have the skills and guidance to create a custom sterling silver ring or pendant featuring a gemstone of your choice. You'll work closely with the instructor to develop a design that complements your stone and reflects your personal style.
Materials & Supplies
Please bring:
Gemstones: One large, flat-backed cabochon, either calibrated or organically cut. Ideal sizes are approximately 15–30 mm. Suitable stones include labradorite, turquoise, jasper, and agate. Please avoid very soft or fragile stones, such as opals, which may crack under setting pressure.
Any additional stones you'd like to incorporate into your design.
Any preferred metal you'd like to work with.
Inspiration photos or design ideas.
A sketchbook or notebook for planning your design.
An apron.
The instructor will also have gemstones and metal available for purchase at market prices during class. Payment accepted by Venmo or check.
Dates: Saturday & Sunday, April 17 - 18, from 10 am to 4 pm
Fee: $ 225/discount with member code
Ages: 18+
Level: Beginner/Intermediate
Sessions: 2
Instructor: Tamara Kelly
Location: Schack Art Center, Metalsmithing Studio
Turn your cabochon collection into wearable art! Spend a full weekend learning traditional silversmithing techniques as you design and create a custom sterling silver ring or pendant built around your own gemstone.
Whether you're a rockhound, lapidary artist, or gemstone collector, this workshop is a great opportunity to transform a favorite stone into a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry. Under the guidance of jeweler Tamara Kelly, you'll learn to design, fabricate, and torch-solder a custom setting tailored to the unique shape and dimensions of your stone.
What You'll Learn
Day 1 – Metalwork & Texturing: Begin by evaluating your stones and sketching your jewelry design. Learn foundational metalworking techniques, including measuring, sawing, shaping, and texturing sterling silver. Experiment with hammers, reticulation, and metal fusion to create distinctive details for your piece.
Day 2 – Soldering & Stone Setting: Build on your design with hands-on torch work and precision fabrication. Learn to create a custom bezel setting that fits your stone, solder your jewelry components, and securely set your gemstone using traditional silversmithing tools. Finish your piece with filing, finishing, and professional polishing techniques.
By the end of the weekend, you'll have the skills and guidance to create a custom sterling silver ring or pendant featuring a gemstone of your choice. You'll work closely with the instructor to develop a design that complements your stone and reflects your personal style.
Materials & Supplies
Please bring:
Gemstones: One large, flat-backed cabochon, either calibrated or organically cut. Ideal sizes are approximately 15–30 mm. Suitable stones include labradorite, turquoise, jasper, and agate. Please avoid very soft or fragile stones, such as opals, which may crack under setting pressure.
Any additional stones you'd like to incorporate into your design.
Any preferred metal you'd like to work with.
Inspiration photos or design ideas.
A sketchbook or notebook for planning your design.
An apron.
The instructor will also have gemstones and metal available for purchase at market prices during class. Payment accepted by Venmo or check.
