Gold and Platinum jewelry classes in NY

April 13, 2007 12:51 PM

Where should I study jewelry-making in New York? (Looking for a full bench certificate program, not at a college and not an individual class, but flexible if it is an excellent class)

I have taken some basic classes before and have worked with copper and silver, but I would like to learn more about stone polishing and setting (maybe even cutting) and working with gold, platinum, and plating. I would also like one with open studio hours so I can come back and practice outside of class.

I do not want to enroll full-time in a university program, but I would not mind taking classes at one if they don't require me to take classes in areas I already have experience with or don't have interest in.

The ideal program would not be full-time so I could have a part time job, but since I do want a thorough program, I am flexible on that.

Anyone been to a program like this in NY? Know of any good ones? Anything I should watch out for? Any other suggestions?

posted by rmless to Education (1 answer total)

Best answer: GIA has a jewelry arts program that will get you started. Their courses are a bit on the expensive side, but they're comprehensive. They're located in the diamond district. If you're looking to be a bench jeweler, it's a good place to start, after which I would suggest an apprenticeship with a really good jeweler. There's nothing like experience to teach you the ins and outs of stone setting etc.

I'm a jeweler, and I've met lots and lots of jewelers. It's my strong opinion that a really good bench jeweler cannot prosper without a great working knowledge and understanding of stones. This is because you need to know the tolerance and characteristics of the stones that you work with. You can gain this knowledge with experience, but usually it's very expensive and harrowing experience ("Oh my god! I just overheated and cracked this $10k ruby!). So, if you have the time and the money, please also take a couple of gemology courses. You'll be glad that you did.
posted by Flakypastry at 4:58 PM on April 13, 2007