Next-level Earrings: Custom Step Bezels & Hinges with Suzanne Williams: October 10 and 11

If you’ve ever needed a bezel setting for a special gemstone that was a larger size or an unusual shape, and the only way to obtain one is by building it yourself because nothing commercially available would work – then this workshop is for you. Most stones like this require a custom-built setting. In this 2-day workshop, participants will learn how to build step bezels with a particular focus on creating them for faceted stones.

At the end of class, you will have made at least 1 pair of hinged earrings in sterling silver, and 2 pairs of earrings if time allows. Suzanne will also introduce and demo a bonus project - a step bezel for a faceted stone pendant with an attachment for a chain - that can be completed if time allows.

You will learn how to:

• Measure length and depth of strip for stone seats
• Form/shape strip and miter sharp-edged corners for stone seats
• Wrap stone seats with an outer bezel strip to achieve maximum fit
• Solder inner seat and outer bezel components together
• Create hinges so that the earrings will articulate
• Set stones in completed step bezel settings

Details:

• October 10 & 11 from 9:30-5:30 each day. You must be able to attend both days as no makeups will be given.
• 16 contact hours, held at Silver Peak Jewelry Arts, 100 E. Cleveland St. Lafayette, CO 80026.
• # students: 3minimum, 6 maximum
• Tools are provided
• Materials kit fee will be based on current metal markets at time of class and will be paid directly to Suzanne, and a $15 studio fee payable separately to Silver Peak Jewelry Arts.Payable via cash, check or Zelle.
• Prerequisite: Metals 1 and 2, Beginning Metalsmithing (Metals 1 and 2 combined), or equivalent experience.

The last day to cancel for a refund or credit ($25 transfer fee applies) is August 10, 2025. Because this is a Master Series workshop, there are no exceptions to this rule.

By registering for this workshop, you agree to our cancellation policy, dress code, and studio rules.

About the instructor, Suzanne Williams

Suzanne, a Colorado resident, graduated from Colorado State University in 1980 with a degree in printmaking. She later worked as a graphic artist, illustrator, fine artist, and technician in art/bronze casting foundries prior to starting her metalsmithing career in 1990.

She has shown her award-winning work in many art festivals, galleries, and group shows. Suzanne is always working on developing and applying new techniques and approaches to creating her signature 3-dimensional jewelry. This includes building unique gemstone settings to incorporate into her jewelry pieces.

In the last five years she has also been teaching workshops to share her extensive
metalsmithing and design experience with others.