Learn how to make dainty stacking rings with different kinds of wire as well as with a genuine gemstone!
At the end of class, you will have completed one sterling silver ring with a round calibrated cabochon from our school inventory (lab-grown sapphire, ruby, peridot, onyx, or turquoise) as well as 1 stacking ring make from round sterling silver or gold-filled wire, 1 beaded stacking ring from sterling silver or gold-filled wire, and 1 hammered square wire sterling silver stacking ring, making that a total of 4 stacking rings.
Prerequisite: Intro to Metalsmithing, Level 1 Metalsmithing, Metals 1, or equivalent is required.
We will cover:
- Ring sizing
- Working with sterling silver and gold-filled wire
- Soldering
- Forming
- Sweat soldering
- Texturing metal
- Stone setting on a ring
- Polishing
Class Duration: 8 hours with a 30 minute break for lunch
We have a mini fridge and microwave, a separate conference room and a deck with a mountain view where you can relax on your break. We also have Nespresso coffee, tea, and snacks available for purchase.
Last day to cancel for a full refund or class transfer is June 10, 2023. After this date, no refunds or transfers will be given. 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
You will need to bring your own KN95 or N95 mask to use while polishing. If you do not have one, we have them for sale for $5 (limit 1 per person).
Base materials fee for silver/studio materials is $25 + stone selected (+$5 for non-precious stones, +$15 for lab-grown sapphire or ruby). To work in 14K gold filled wire, there will be a $10 upcharge.
Cash, Venmo, or check accepted.
About the instructor, Jen Lesea-Ames
A former personal fitness trainer and certified USA-Triathlon coach with over 18 years of teaching experience, Jen retired from her fitness and coaching career after receiving a diagnosis of hip dysplasia and underwent two major hip surgeries. Wanting more of a challenge after stringing beads for three years, she studied metalsmithing at the Denver School of Metal Arts (now Denver Jewelry Studio) from 2012-2016.
After her hip surgeries and recovery, she decided to go full-time with her jewelry business in 2014 and opened Silver Peak Studio in July 2020.
Jen is the owner, designer, and metalsmith of Jen Lesea Designs, (2009-present). Her jewelry is sold in over 50 stores nationwide, 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 Accredited 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 paddle-boarding!
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: cats, pizza, and outdoor adventures.