Metalsmithing Basics: Rings and Pendants
Make a sterling silver ring or pendant from scratch in this beginner class near Richmond, VA.
About this workshop
If you've ever wanted to work with real silver and understand how jewelry is actually built, this class is a great place to start. In this 4-hour beginner metalsmithing workshop at my studio in Ashland, Virginia, a short drive north of Richmond, you'll learn the foundational skills used to create professional-quality jewelry. Working in sterling silver, you'll design and fabricate your own silver ring or pendant and set a stone using a classic bezel setting. The focus is on learning solid techniques while enjoying the satisfaction of making something wearable from start to finish. We'll cover how to measure, mark, cut, and shape silver sheet and wire, then move into bezel construction so your stone fits just right. You'll learn soldering basics, including torch control and clean joins, followed by stone setting, filing, sanding, and polishing to bring everything together. With just 2 students per class, this is close to private instruction. I'll guide you through each step and help you work through the parts that feel unfamiliar, so you can relax and trust the process. WHO THIS CLASS IS FOR: Anyone curious about traditional jewelry-making and ready to try working with metal for the first time. It's completely beginner-friendly, and it also makes a memorable experience gift for the maker in your life. (Already comfortable at the bench? My fancy bezel class is your next step.) WHAT'S INCLUDED: All tools and equipment, plus a standard amount of sterling silver and a selection of stones to choose from. Want to make something a little more ambitious? Additional silver and upgraded stones are available for an extra fee. WHAT YOU'LL TAKE HOME: A finished sterling silver ring or pendant set with a stone, and a solid understanding of the techniques behind it. SCHEDULING: This class has flexible scheduling and accommodates up to 2 students. Use the "Request to Book" button to arrange a mutually agreeable class time.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation Policy: Workshops have limited spots. Before booking, ensure dates and content are suitable, as refunds are not available if you are unable to attend. Exceptions include: • Rescheduling: If AJ Newell Studio reschedules the workshop and you cannot attend the new dates, • Instructor Unavailability: Due to illness, emergency, or other unforeseen circumstances affecting the instructor, • Weather Conditions: Severe weather or natural disasters making it unsafe to conduct the workshop, • Facility Issues: Problems with the venue such as power outages, maintenance issues, or other disruptions, • Health and Safety Concerns: Any situation posing a risk to the health and safety of participants or staff, • Government Restrictions: Compliance with new laws, regulations, or directives necessitating cancellation. To request a refund, proof of cancellation reason is required, and a $25 admin fee will be deducted from the refund. If unable to attend, you may transfer your booking to someone else by notifying us promptly with the new attendee's name and email. If absent without notifying the Studio, no refund will be issued. Please call (804) 467-2550 if unable to attend or running late. Health and Safety Rules: Participants deemed unfit for safe participation due to alcohol, drugs, ill-health, or fatigue will be excluded from workshops without refund. We reserve the right to exclude any student posing a risk to themselves or others. Our workshops involve potentially hazardous activities such as hot work (kilns and/or gas torches), chemicals, and heavy tools. Dress appropriately with closed-toe shoes and avoid loose, flammable clothing, dangling sleeves, scarves, and unrestrained long hair. Aprons are provided, but wear clothes that can that can get dirty. Protective goggles and masks are mandatory for certain activities. Adhere strictly to all health and safety rules. Failure to arrive in appropriate attire may prevent participation in specific activities for safety reasons. Cancellation by AJ Newell Studio: In the rare event of workshop cancellation, alternatives or refunds will be offered. We aim to provide ample notice but are not liable for travel or accommodation costs. Disclaimer: Content on our website is for general use and information only. We retain the right to change content at any time. AJ Newell Studio holds no liability for website use, reliance on content, or website unavailability.
Contact Details
804-467-2550
aj@ajnewellstudio.com
12058 Haley Farm Rd, Ashland, VA, USA