Registration for this schedule starts on 12/01/2025 and ends on 04/24/2026
Participants must be 18 years to 120 years old when the program starts.
Registration for this schedule starts on 12/01/2025 and ends on 09/18/2026
Participants must be 18 years to 120 years old when the program starts.
CABOCHONS II - CAB ENHANCEMENT AND CREATION
DOUBLETS, CARVING, METAL INLAY AND SPARKLE
INSTRUCTOR: MICHAEL BATEMAN
Learn to bring your average cabochons to life! Students will learn several methods to enhance cabochons and to compose new creations using only flex-shafts and common lapidary tools. These techniques can be employed over a wide range of jewelry media. We will be creating awesome doublets of puau shell (abalone) with clear or translucent cabs. This material is stunning. We will also be making triplets that allow for a wide variety of creativity and design.
Techniques include “carving” and/or etching the backs and tops of cabochons, and inlaying carvings with 23k gold leaf, fine silver, and copper. Students will also learn to drill cabochons to insert faceted stones or cabs (stone “in” stone). Instruction for tube setting faceted stones is provided.
We have several step-by-step projects that demonstrate the methods available for use. Once the techniques are experienced, students can choose from dozens of example pieces that I will have on-site. I will provide step-by-step instructions on how to recreate any selected piece. Conversely, students are free to use their own creativity.
All practice cabs, faceted stones, gold and silver leaf, silver tubing, puau shell, and carving bits are provided. Learn methods to set your work apart from these unique techniques!
For examples of my overall work please see: www.koigemsstudios.etsy.com
Please email with any questions: [email protected]
Lab Fee: $150
Materials Fee: 0+
Consumables Fee: $15 (added to WH tuition)
Prerequisites: Cabochons I. Experience with silversmithing is also helpful. Students must possess a steady hand and good eye for detailed work.
Koi Gems jewelry artist Michael Bateman, is a longtime resident of Tallahassee, Florida, and began working in the lapidary arts in 1975. Since “retiring” in 2018, he has worked full-time in his jewelry studio. He received his training in silversmithing at Florida State University and the William Holland School for Lapidary Arts. He has taken in-person classes with Michael Boyd and Ryan Garder in Colorado, and has had the privilege of individual instruction from Kristin Anderson at her studio in Apalachicola, Florida.
Michael delights in sharing his knowledge related to making and improving cabochons, encouraging students to “push the envelope” regarding lapidary methods. Some of his work can be seen at his website koigemsstudios.etsy.com.Please contact William Holland School of Lapidary Arts if you have any questions.