JOGS Gem Show Class in Tucson, AZ

Mix, Match & Metalsmith: Create a Two-Stone Adjustable Split Ring

Saturday, September 5th | 12:30–2:00 PM
JOGS Gem & Jewelry Show — Tucson Expo Center
3750 E. Irvington Rd.
Tucson, AZ 86714
Class Size: 6 students

Create your own sterling silver two-stone split ring while learning foundational metalsmithing skills in this hands-on 90-minute workshop.

One of the most fun parts of a split ring is choosing two gemstones that look amazing together! You'll get to mix and match from a selection of cabochons I'll have available in class to create a combination that feels completely your own.

And since you'll be at JOGS, take advantage of all those gemstones! I encourage you to explore the gem show before class and see what catches your eye. If you find stones you love, you're welcome to bring them to class to use in your ring. Each ring will use one 8x10mm oval cabochon or a 10mm round cabochon and one 7mm round cabochon, so just make sure the stones you choose are those sizes and shapes.

From there, you'll learn how to use a torch to solder your ring, form your sterling silver band, set your gemstones, and finish everything into a comfortable, wearable piece. The split design makes the ring adjustable, so you can change the fit depending on which finger you want to wear it on.

During this workshop, you'll learn and practice:

• Soldering sterling silver

• Sizing, forming, and shaping a ring band

• Setting cabochon gemstones

• Assembling and finishing your ring

You'll also receive my Soldering Tip Guide and Metal Buying Guide to take home, so you'll have helpful resources to reference as you continue your metalsmithing journey after class.

No previous metalsmithing experience is necessary. This workshop is beginner-friendly, and you'll leave with a finished sterling silver two-stone adjustable split ring made by you.

All tools, sterling silver, gemstones, and materials are included.

This class is taught by Skyler Dunfey, the owner and artist behind SkyJune Designs, a jewelry studio based in Flagstaff, Arizona. Inspired by the landscapes of the Southwest and a love of adventure, she creates handcrafted sterling silver jewelry designed to be both comfortable and durable enough for everyday wear. In addition to creating her own collections, Skyler teaches metalsmithing classes out of her studio in Flagstaff and is passionate about helping students build confidence in their metalsmithing skills. Skyler is thrilled to be teaching at the JOGS Tucson Gem & Jewelry Show and looks forward to sharing her passion for metalsmithing with the gem and jewelry community.

*A note about close-up work: We'll be working with small jewelry components throughout the class, so please bring your reading glasses, OptiVISOR, or any other magnification you typically use for detailed, up-close work.