GVR LAPIDARY & SILVERSMITH CLUB

GETTING STARTED IN JEWELRY MAKING CLASSES

These are examples of beginner classes and prerequisites for intermediate and advanced classes.

Basic Chain Maille Bracelet and Earrings

Chain Maille is the art of combining links of a chain or jump rings together to make a pattern for jewelry. You will learn two patterns that can be formed into bracelets with earrings to match. You will learn about wire gauge, hardness and shapes used. Materials include: jump rings, clasps, ear wires, and tools to keep. A material fee is payable to the instructor at first class.

Dichroic Jewelry

This class is a prerequisite for the dichroic workshops offered by the GVR Lapidary Club. Students will cut and assemble three pieces of fusible and dichroic glass. Pieces may be used for pendants, earrings, etc. Students will learn the basics of glass fusion and dichroic glass capabilities. No prior experience or tools are necessary. This is a two day (separated) class. The class includes cutting the glass pieces, design, fusing and finishing. A material fee is payable to the instructor at first class.

Lapidary Class

Learn the steps to cut, grind and polish stone slabs to make cabochons for jewelry.  Class requires standing for most of the sessions (as well as walking) to use various pieces of equipment.  Wear old clothes and closed-toe shoes as water is used at most stations.  This class is required to allow Lapidary Club members to use equipment independently. A material fee (for rough gemstones) is payable to the instructor at first class.

Learn to Use the Torch

Please note that this class is a prerequisite for more advanced classes offered by the GVR Lapidary & Silversmith Club

Learn forging and annealing techniques (acetylene/air torch) to create a cuff bracelet, earrings and pendant. Foremost will be safety instructions on using the torch to anneal, or soften, the metal before forming. Students will be shown examples of copper, brass and silver jewelry created by GVR Lapidary Club members for inspiration. Wear closed-toe shoes and long pants. Safety glasses and hearing protection are provided. A material fee is payable to the instructor at first class.

Learn to Solder

Prerequisite: Learn to Use the Torch (or previous experience)

Please note that this class is a prerequisite for more advanced silversmith classes offered by the GVR Lapidary & Silversmith Club.
Students will learn the basics of using torch soldering techniques to make jewelry.  Students will begin developing the skills and confidence needed to fabricate jewelry by fusing sterling silver and other metals.  Class projects may include:  1) Forming, stacking and soldering silver pieces to make earrings; 2) Creating a sterling silver pendant by sweat soldering (tinning) shapes onto a back plate. Wear closed-toe shoes and long pants.  Optivizor (magnifier) glasses will be available.  A material fee is payable to the instructor at first class.

WORKSHOPS

Workshops provide the opportunity for you to work on your projects with the support of instructors and/or experienced assistants. Bring your materials and tools with you. Depending on the workshop, tools may be provided and materials may be available for purchase.  All participants must be a member of the GVR Lapidary and Silversmith Club.

Dichroic Glass Workshop

Prerequisite: Open to all members who have completed the GVR Dichroic Jewelry class.   Work on your own projects with help available if you need it.  Learn new skills from experienced instructors. Tools are provided; there is a small fee for firing. Materials such as fusible glass, dichroic glass and findings are available for purchase.

Tuesdays:                    Time: 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm         Location: East Center Studio
By Reservation Only (contact Pat Reynolds)

Wednesdays:               Time: 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm         Location: East Center Studio
By Reservation Only (contact Pat Reynolds)

Metal Forming Workshop

Prerequisite: Open to all members who have completed the GVR Learn to Use the Torch class. Join us for this free open workshop - enjoy an evening of sharing ideas, using the wonderful metal forming tools and equipment, and have fun!  Just bring your own supplies and ideas!

Location:  Desert Hills Lapidary Center
Time:  5:30-8:00 PM

Check the GVR Lapidary Club Calendar for days when the workshop is offered.