Stone Setting Stage Two – Design & Manufacture

You will learn the basic technique of how to construct a bezel, set gemstones and explore concepts of jewellery design and manufacture. Different styles of setting include: Bezel setting, Flush setting and tab setting.

ABOUT THE COURSE

Prerequisite
You must have completed Learn to Make Jewellery Stage One - An Introduction or equivalent.
This course is ideal for those who understand the basic principles of annealing, soldering, saw piercing, filing and using equipment such as micromotors. You will need to provide evidence that you meet the requirements listed in this section. Those with some setting experience may still benefit from this workshop and can undertake more challenging exercises.

Course Objectives
There is a focus on fabricating well-finished, professional silver gem jewellery using semi precious stones. You will gain confidence using new tools and equipment and develop greater material understanding. You will expand your industry knowledge and supplier information. You will learn how to make your own setting tools and broaden your knowledge of the anatomy of all stones.

Course Outcomes
The focus of this course is to refine your skills and produce a high standard silver gem set piece of jewellery incorporating one or more of the stone settings. The skills you learn can be used later with pendants, bracelets and earrings.

You will be introduced to industry standard machinery and equipment that will help you to refine your approach to jewellery making. Everyone will complete one or more semi precious stone set silver jewellery item/s and learn the steps needed to make round & oval bezels, round flush/ gypsy set stones and tab set irregular forms You may use one or all of the setting styles in your design. Some participants may make more than one piece of jewellery - a small selection of stones and metal are available to purchase.

What’s Included
A material pack containing sterling silver sheet for your first project, assortment of gem stones and consumables and your very own setting tool is supplied.

The Tutor: Erin Keys
Erin Keys has over 20 years experience as a jeweller, designer and educator with a diverse range of achievements in various facets of craft and design. Participating in nearly 100 exhibitions in Australia and overseas since 1999, her practice spans one-off exhibition pieces, bespoke commissions and a limited edition laser cut production range available through several stockists.

Erin has taught beginner to advanced jewellery courses at Sturt Summer School, JamFactory, SquarePeg Studios and is currently a sessional teacher at UNSW Art & Design.

For the past 10 years Erin has had extensive involvement with design and education, working as a Jewellery Design Developer for over 5 years at one of Australia's leading design companies Dinosaur Designs and for Louise Olsen X ALEX AND TRAHANAS.