Workshop - Lapidary for Metalsmiths

Description

Have you ever been ready to set your stone and dropped it, braking it beyond repair? Have you ever calculated wrong and your stone is just a teeny bit too big? Or you need a small bevel on the bottom of your stone to fit with that meniscus angle? What do you do now? Do you scrap your setting? No! I’ll show you a few tricks to reshape a new one or make that stone a perfect fit. In this workshop we’ll be creating a small cabochon, trimming a stone down to fit an existing bezel cup, and learning the fundamentals of lapidary design. All while working at your bench. You will also learn how to properly drill stones. With this knowledge we will create a fun stone-on-stone pendant. And if time permits, lapping more stones. My goal is to send you home with the knowledge and ability to be fearless toward stone grinding, shaping, polishing, and drilling. And handouts! I love handouts … with lots of pictures.  Lapidary work is one of my passions. I’m excited to share that with you!

Instructor

Cathy Prieto-Smith

Bio

Cathy Prieto-Smith is a Houston-based artist. She has adorned herself with her handmade creations since she was a child. In 1998 she went “official” with Charisma Designs. By 2001 she was studying under Master Jeweler, Val Link, at the University of Houston. She specializes in metal but loves cutting stones, fusing glass, and ceramics. Cathy creates and teaches in her amazing studio in Houston’s artistic EaDo.

Lunch: Please bring a bag lunch.  Some snacks and beverages will be provided by HMAG.

Parking is included and available in the lot next to Cathy's studio.

All materials are included.