✨ Everything You Need to Know About My Silversmithing & Lapidary Classes
A full Q&A guide for new students, gift-givers, and curious makers
I’ve been getting a lot of questions lately about my Beginner Silversmithing and Beginner Lapidary classes here in Southern Utah, so I wanted to put everything in one place. Whether you’re booking for yourself or gifting the experience to someone special, here’s a full breakdown of how the classes work, what to expect, and how to choose the right session.
Q: Do I need any experience?
Not at all! Both classes are designed specifically for complete beginners. I walk you through every step at a comfortable pace. All tools are provided, and no prior experience is necessary.
Q: Where do the classes take place?
All classes are held in my private home studio/garage shop in the St. George, Utah area. Once you purchase a class, the exact address and instructions will be emailed to you.
Q: How long is each class?
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Silversmithing: 3–4 hours
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Lapidary: 2–3 hours
I keep things relaxed and flexible so you can enjoy the process.
Q: What will I make?
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Silversmithing students create a sterling silver ring or pendant with a gemstone.
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Lapidary students cut and polish their own gemstone cabochon from start to finish.
Both projects are beginner-friendly, hands-on, and something you’ll leave feeling proud of.
Q: Can I use my own stone?
Yes! You’re welcome to bring your own stone or cabochon as long as it’s something safe and realistic for a beginner.
Fragile stones, high-value opals, unusually shaped stones, or ultra-thin slabs aren’t recommended for first-time projects, but I’m happy to look at what you have.
I also have a selection of stones available to choose from during class.
Q: Can I make a wedding ring in class?
This is one of the most common questions I get, especially from people wanting a meaningful handmade piece.
For safety and skill-building reasons, wedding rings aren’t recommended as a first project.
Wedding bands require precise measuring, forging, and refining techniques that are best tackled after you’ve completed the beginner class and feel confident with the basics.
The beginner class is the perfect starting place — but it’s not intended for heirloom-level projects just yet.
Q: Can I bring someone with me?
Classes are one-on-one to ensure safety and focus. My studio space is small and not set up for multiple active participants.
However — if you want a partner, spouse, or friend to stop by toward the end to see what you’ve made, that’s perfectly fine.
Q: How many classes should I take?
There’s no required number — you can take as many or as few as you want.
Most students:
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Start with one silversmithing or one lapidary class
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Practice on their own
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Come back later for a second session or a different project
If you want to grow your skills or eventually create more advanced pieces (like wedding bands), additional classes are a great next step.
Q: When can I schedule my class?
Classes resume January 2026.
Once you purchase a class on the website, you’ll receive a scheduling link to choose your date.
Q: What should I bring?
Just yourself, closed-toe shoes, and clothes that can get dusty.
All tools, materials, safety gear, and equipment are provided.
Q: What’s the difference between a standard class and the upgraded kit option?
Both classes offer an optional “starter kit” that students get upon arrival and can take home to continue practicing.
Silversmithing Upgrade ($470 total):
Includes a full essential starter kit including hand tools, saw blades, solder, flux, and more.
Lapidary Upgrade ($285 total):
Includes a dopping kit, wax, practice stones, and a catalog of shops for sourcing future materials and equipment.
Q: Can I gift a class?
Absolutely — my classes are extremely popular as gifts.
Just leave a note at checkout with the student’s name, and I’ll email you a printable Class Gift Certificate to wrap or include with their present.
Q: What if I need to reschedule?
No problem at all — just email me 48 hours before your class and we’ll choose another time that works.
Q: Is the class customizable?
Within beginner-level boundaries, yes.
Students can choose:
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Ring or pendant (silversmithing)
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Their gemstone
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The shape of their cabochon (lapidary)
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The pace they want to work at
Advanced projects or multi-step heirloom pieces are better suited for returning students or private mentoring sessions.
Have another question I didn’t answer?
You can always reach out directly through my contact page or Instagram. I’m happy to help you choose the right class or prep for your first experience at the bench.
Shop Class options HERE
