Intro to Southwest Silversmithing & Open Studio

Beginning students will learn the basic skills of Southwest-style silversmithing in the awe-inspiring Ghost Ranch jewelry studio. Experienced students who already have basic silversmith skills and wish to work independently will have open use of the Ghost Ranch silversmith studio, with optional silversmith and lapidary coaching. Beginners will experience hands-on work in sawing, soldering, stone-setting, and finishing beautiful jewelry, and they will learn to safely use the basic tools of silversmith work. Students will leave with multiple pieces of wearable jewelry art and a discovery of their own creative potential.

For beginning or experienced students. Serious-minded youth 14+ are welcome. Studio work may be supplemented by demonstrations, discussions and guest instructors. Lapidary and silver channel inlay instruction will be provided to interested students. Students will leave the class with wearable jewelry art. 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 a beautiful 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 open studio will be staffed by experienced silversmith instructors who will be available for consultation, assistance, and demonstrations. 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 $150 – $300 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.