Advanced Silversmithing: Lapidary and Inlay

This is an intermediate/advanced course in jewelry-making and lapidary for students who already have basic silversmith skills. Studio work will be supplemented by demonstrations, discussions and guest instructors. Students will learn lapidary and silver channel inlay construction using semi-precious stones and shell. Students will leave the class with wearable jewelry art and a discovery of their own creative potential. To be fair for all students in the class, students may be asked about their silversmith experience prior to their enrollment confirmation to ensure that all students have the minimum necessary skills for this class.

The fully equipped Ghost Ranch jewelry studio provides a wonderful opportunity for students to learn the skills and techniques of advanced silver jewelry-making in an awe-inspiring location with a long history in the creative arts. Ghost Ranch is a place of beauty and serenity that nurtures the creative spirit with a lengthy history in the creative arts. Silversmith students come away from this class with unimagined creations, a proud sense of accomplishment, and a personal connection to the arts of the Southwest. The studio is equipped with all the needed tools, supplies and equipment. Students may bring their own hand-tools, stones, and silver supplies, if desired. Silver used in class projects can be purchased at the studio. Note: Students should expect to spend between $100 – $300 or more on silver for the week unless brought from home – this cost is NOT included in the class fee and will be paid at the end of class. Learning Outcomes:
– Students will learn basic skills in cutting, setting, grinding and polishing semi-precious stones for lapidary work.
– Students will learn silver channel bracelet construction for stone inlay
– Students will learn to safely use lapidary tools: trim-saw, flat-laps, genies, and other polishing tools
– Students will acquire confidence in their creative abilities and skills
– Students will create wearable and sellable jewelry art