Registration for this schedule starts on 12/01/2025 and ends on 07/10/2026
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 07/24/2026
Participants must be 18 years to 120 years old when the program starts.
You will learn the basics of selecting a rough slab for cutting, using the trim saw to orient the stone, preform, mark, grind and polish the stone to create a beautiful, calibrated cabochon. As you progress in skill and knowledge, the instructor will discuss the art of freeform cabochons and cabochon repairs. No student will begin with freeform. Students experienced in cutting cabochons are expected to be attentive during all instructions and demonstrations in this beginner’s class. Instructions will be given on the cleaning, care and use of the saws and lapidary equipment with attention being given to safety.
You will be responsible daily for maintaining the equipment you use and are required to provide a complete and detailed cleaning of that equipment and the room at the end of the week. You will need an Optivisor or some type of non-handheld magnification device. Aprons, masks, and other materials will be provided (if needed). You may bring slabs of agate or jasper (no more than 6) between 5mm and 8mm thickness. Additional slabs will be available for purchase from the instructor. The lab fee includes the first preform, printed instructions and other materials as needed.
Class Fee: $50
Est Materials Fee: $0-$25
Prerequisites: None
Larry Carby
Larry is from Alabama. He retired as a supervisor for Bellsouth in 1997 and Averitt Trucking in 2010. His interest in rocks started from watching a show on gem mining in North Carolina. Larry joined the Alabama Mineral and Lapidary Society (AMLS) in 2007. His first experience with cabbing was with AMLS member Steve Adams.
In 2009 he started taking classes at William Holland. Larry has taken classes in cabochon I and II, opal I, casting, silver I and silver II. He uses a technique taught to him by a fellow AMLS member to put silver around his cabochons and does presentations to lapidary clubs on this technique. He sells his jewelry at juried arts and crafts festivals in Alabama, Georgia, Pennsylvania, and South Carolina.
Please contact William Holland School of Lapidary Arts if you have any questions.