Prerequisite:  Metalsmithing 1
 
Statement rings have been a fashion staple since the 1920’s when the Art Deco style reigned and glamour and excess were the hallmarks of the decade. Statement rings were one way the women of the 20’s era could rebel against the conservatism of the Prohibition movement and assert their own independence and individuality through their jewelry.
 
Today, statement rings still serve as a means of self-expression, but they are now a true representation of the diversity and resiliency of fashion. 
 
In this workshop, participants will learn how to create a split shank, bezel set statement ring. We will discuss the basics of working with gallery wire; the benefits and pitfalls of working with larger cabochons; why split shank bands are beneficial to use for statement rings; and different embellishment options for the band and bezel.
 
Participants will have hands-on experience creating a bezel out of gallery wire, shaping, finishing, and soldering down a split-shank band, and setting the cabochon without marring the pattern on the gallery wire. 
 
MATERIALS & TOOLS
Bring your metalsmithing toolbox, including the following items: 
3" or more Sterling Silver Double Half-Round wire, 0.257x 0.081" (6.53mm x 2.0mm) (Rio Grande #102004)
2x3" 20 gauge Sterling silver sheet, dead soft
1 Cabochon, nickel to quarter sized, no sharp points or corners
Bezel wire: 1 ft Sterling silver scalloped bezel or gallery wire of your choice; or 26ga Fine Silver plain bezel wire
Silver Wire Solder, 22 ga in Hard, Medium, Easy, Extra-easy
Jeweler’s saw frame, 2/0 saw blades and beeswax/burlife
Flush cut wire cutters
Chain nose pliers
Flat and Half-Round needle file, cut 0 (or get the set here)
Bezel roller
Jeweler’s ruler
1 each 220, 320, 400, 600 grit sandpaper
Protective eyewear
fine tip sharpie
Apron
N95/K95 face mask 
Optional Items: 
Nylon jaw parallel pliers (flat nose recommended)
Flex-I-File  (#123 Combo Set)
Texture plate (Cool Tools or Santa Fe Jewelers Supply ) 
14mm looping pliers (also called Wrap n Tap pliers, made by Eurotool)
 
8 Contact Hours | Studio fee is included in your tuition ($5 value)