Registration for this schedule starts on 12/01/2025 and ends on 08/21/2026
Participants must be 18 years to 120 years old when the program starts.
FACETING I – INTRODUCTION TO FACETING
INSTRUCTOR: JOHN ELLIOTT
This class is for students with no prior faceting experience. The student will learning about the art and science of faceting. The class is about gaining practical experience. The skills developed are the kinesthetic ability of using faceting machines. Covered will reading faceting diagrams, the use of refractive Indexes of various gems. There will be learning demonstrations of techniques needed to facet gems.
The student will learn about different types of machines. These are hand piece and mast machines. The class will learn faceting rough evaluation and selection, dopping techniques, performing rough to save time, lap selection and lap progression, machine usage, faceting techniques, design interpretation and an overview of computer-aided design using GemCad and Gemcut studio.
The first project is the most typical gem faceting design, a modified standard round brilliant. With this project, we will learn to read faceting designs, cut to identical depths on a given tier, use grit progressions, and learn good polishing techniques. For our second project, we will select from designs suitable for beginners and will learn rough selection, preforming, and continue development in a more individualized direction. I expect that we will finish at least two stones this class.
I recommend using class materials for these projects. If you would like to bring your own material, please bring synthetic quartz, laser gem, or Nano crystal to streamline your learning process. The student kit will have most of what you need, but please bring an OptiVISOR or 10x loupe in addition to closed-toe shoes. If you have your own faceting machine or laps, feel free to bring those as well and I’ll help you learn about using that machine.
This class will be a fun, structured, and very informative introduction into the world of crafting beautiful gemstones. You will complete the class with a rich base of knowledge and will be capable of cutting elaborate designs in the future.
Class Fee: $200
Estimated Materials Fee: $0
Prerequisites: None
Growing up I went into mines and collected stones with my mother and Father. Later in life I started faceting and making jewelry. In 2018, I discovered the William Holland School and took courses in faceting and jewelry making. I was hooked. I explored and enjoyed doing Sapphires and Rubies in 2019.
Please contact William Holland School of Lapidary Arts if you have any questions.