Fire and gems, what could be more fun?

Dates offered:Feb 10th 2024

Length: 5 hours (plus lunch break)

Level: 1/All levels

Prerequisite: Some soldering experience

Cost: $305.00

Kit includes: faceted semiprecious gemstones (two 5mm and one 3.5mm), sterling silver ring stock, sterling silver tube settings, color handout

Techniques taught:
• ring forming and sizing
• intermediate soldering/soldering a tube setting
• how to seat and set faceted stones in a tube setting using a punch

Description:Use rectangular wire to make a set of stylish stackers. Add tube-set gemstones to three and forge cool textures onto two spacer rings. This class will give you excellent practice in ring forming and soldering as you shape and solder ring after ring. You can try our “secret weapon” tool – the ring bender – that makes forming the wire easy. Learn a production-style coiling method for shaping several rings at once. To solder, use the home-friendly butane torch or try your hand at our mixed-gas station – a professional torch that’s a step up from the butane torch. Leave feeling confident in your soldering skills and with a fingerful of stackers!

“What class level am I at?”
Level 1: No experience necessary, all levels welcome! The instructors will take extra time introducing skills, explaining terms, and helping students one on one.

Level 2: Intermediate. You have taken one or more Level 1 classes at the Jewelers Guild and have practiced basic fabrication skills including sawing, filing, drilling, soldering, using a flex shaft, and finishing. You can work independently on the project’s basic fabrication steps.

Level 3: Advanced. You have progressed through Level 1 and Level 2 classes with Jewelers Guild instructors and have demonstrated proficiency with a wide range of fabrication skills. You’re able to work independently and efficiently with minimal guidance beyond the project’s specific instructions.

“What do I need to bring?”
Nothing … or very little. You can bring your own metalwork hand tools if you like, but all tools will be provided. You’ll receive your supplies and materials on the day of class (payment in check or charge to the instructor). Dress appropriately: tie long hair back, wear closed-toe shoes, and wear natural-fiber clothes (and/or an apron) that you don’t mind dirtying up. No long/loose/flowy sleeves, please. Bring close-up specs if you need them, or an Optivisor or similar magnifying help if you use it.