Enter the world of gemstone jewelry with this metalsmithing workshop in stone setting in our professional metalsmithing jewelry school in Louisville! Students will learn how to make custom bezels for cabochons. At the end of class, students will have completed a sterling silver stone pendant with a custom bail.
We will cover:
- Bezel sizing and fitting
- Bezel soldering
- Making bails
- Hammer texturing and stamping
- Cabochon setting
- Polish and finish work
Class is 8 hours with a 30 minute break for lunch. We have a mini fridge and microwave, a separate break room and a deck with a mountain view where you can eat and relax on your break. We also have Nespresso coffee, tea, and snacks available for purchase.
Prerequisite: Metals 101/Intro to Metals, Metals 1, or equivalent
Last day to cancel for a full refund is December 16, 2023. Please review our FAQ page for directions and dress code. By registering for the class you agree to our policies and dress code.
Tools and Materials
Tools will be provided.
Materials fee will depend on the stones selected and the amount of silver used. A selection of stones will be available for purchase at the beginning of class. Silver will be charged at $2/gram. Cash (exact change), check, or Venmo accepted.
About the instructor, Jen Lesea-Ames:
A former exercise physiologist and triathlete, Jen retired from her fitness career after receiving a diagnosis of hip dysplasia and decided to go full-time with her jewelry business in 2014.
Wanting more of a challenge after stringing beads for three years, she studied metalsmithing at the Denver School of Metal Arts (now called Denver Jewelry Studio) from 2012-2016. She decided to go full-time with her jewelry business in 2014 and opened Silver Peak Studio in July 2020.
She is the owner, designer, and metalsmith of Jen Lesea Designs, (2009-present); her jewelry is sold in over 50 stores, including Fallingwater Museum Store, the Denver Art Museum Gift Shop, and the national catalog Uncommon Goods. Her experience and work has landed her local and national press. Jen is an Applied Jewelry Professional from the Gemological Institute of America GIA.
Her fun and friendly nature is apparent in everything she does, whether its teaching metalsmithing, talking to art show patrons, or motivating people to try something new, like stand up paddleboarding!
As the owner of Silver Peak Studio, it is her intention to provide a safe, clean, professional and fun environment where students can grow in metalsmithing and enjoy the journey.
A few of Jen's favorite things is recreating outdoors, traveling, and hanging with her fur babies (kitties), Addie and Stevie.