Gemstone bezel setting workshop
Saturday 29th August 10am-4pm
Available spots
Course Description
Gemstones have been used in jewellery for thousands of years, and in this workshop you’ll step into the world of working with beautiful semi‑precious stones. You’ll create a beautiful, bespoke ring or pendant using fine silver and 925 sterling silver, and learn how to set a cabochon gemstone using traditional rub‑over bezel‑setting techniques. It’s the perfect workshop for making a special piece for yourself or a meaningful, handcrafted gift. By the end of the workshop, you’ll have hands‑on experience in cutting, filing, soldering, polishing and bezel setting, as well as forming and shaping metal through annealing, bending and texturing. Through a guided project, you’ll design and create your own unique, handcrafted gemstone piece, learning to use the tools and equipment with growing confidence. You’ll leave with a beautifully finished, gift‑worthy piece of jewellery and a strong, practical foundation in gemstone‑setting techniques. All silver and one cabochon gemstone are included for the set project. Additional silver or alternative gemstones can be purchased on the day if you’d like to customise your design further or make extra pieces. A full range of high‑quality tools is provided, though you’re welcome to bring your own if you prefer. Liz will guide you step‑by‑step, with opportunities to personalise your design to suit your own style. The workshop takes place in Liz’s garden studio, where she teaches in small groups to ensure plenty of individual support. Liz brings over 20 years of professional teaching experience, along with specialist diplomas in Fine Jewellery Making and Advanced Jewellery Making from the London Jewellery School. With advanced jewellery training and decades of teaching experience, Liz breaks down complex techniques so they feel accessible, logical and genuinely enjoyable to learn. Her workshops are structured, supportive and packed with practical guidance, offering clear step‑by‑step teaching and personalised troubleshooting. No previous experience with jewellery making is required. Some manual dexterity is helpful, but most individual needs can be accommodated. Participants are encouraged to get in touch to discuss any specific requirements. Please note that the learning studio is not currently wheelchair accessible. Children aged 11 and over are welcome but must be accompanied by a paying adult.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your booking within 14 days of confirming your place without charge (provided your course hasn't started).
About the Tutor
My name is Liz Taylor
I am the owner of The Silver Bird, an artisan, handmade jewellery business based in a semi-rural village in Cambridgeshire. I specialising in bespoke commissions, and customisable pieces, as well as teaching traditional jewellery making techniques.
I have recently retired from an18 year career as a secondary DT teacher, over which time, I have taught hundreds of young people how to design and make novel, beautiful products, by exploring material properties and generating unique forms. I have completed a Masters of Education at Cambridge University, focusing on creative idea generation and development. This gave me a particular passion for biomimicry; using and replicating the nature through product design to make unique textures and forms.
I teach silver jewellery making at evening classes in several schools local to Cambridge and have designed my own teaching room to accommodate up to four aspiring silver-smiths.
Jewellery making with silver is easily the most addictive thing I have ever done. And that's before we talk about the enchanting world of gemstones! Whether you are into contemporary or classic pieces, you are learning for pleasure or you want your own career change, I can help you fall in love with the processes and achieve your jewellery-making potential.
Contact me for an informal chat if you'd like more information of what I can offer. I look forward to making with you.
