Jewelry Design Workshops in New York City

The Jewelry Arts Institute in New York:
Conveniently situated in Midtown Manhattan, the Jewelry Arts Institute (JAI) is a leading jewelry school that provides a comprehensive education in classical jewelry-making. Jewelry Arts is one of only a handful of institutions around the world that teaches classical methods of making fine jewelry. We provide our students with a rare opportunity to learn skills such as enameling, granulation, chain weaving and other techniques that are the hallmarks of classical jewelry.

Jewelry Design classes are held throughout the year. Each quarter is between 8-12 weeks, which meet once a week for three hours. Our intensive workshops are very popular, with students coming from all over the world. The Intensives are one week workshops in July and August.

We teach all classical techniques in every class. These techniques are Byzantine enameling, classical chain making, classical settings, granulation in silver and gold, lapidary and other related techniques. Since all projects are taught by one-on-one demonstration, students of all levels can be enrolled in all classes. This is true for both the semester classes and the intensive workshops. We have a teacher for every five or six students so the student receives a lot of attention. If a student were to complete all of the many projects we have developed, he/she would end up with a complete background of classical jewelry techniques.

Q: What will I learn in one semester ?

A: Our instruction is project based. New students will first receive a safety lecture to familiarize them with the safe operation of the torch and other studio equipment and then will begin working on a set of three stacking rings from fine and sterling silver. This project teaches fusing, soldering, polishing, and stone setting. Each student works at his/her own pace and can usually complete a set of stacking rings and at least one other project of his/her choosing (at the appropriate skill level) by the end of the semester.

Q: What if I already have some experience?

A: Many students come to JAI with previous metalsmithing experience. Your teacher will work with you to determine how best to achieve your goals and decide on a starting project that accomplishes your objectives.

Q: What tools do I need to bring?

A: We have a beginner tool kit available for purchase for $154. which contains all the basic hand tools, silver, and stones needed to complete the first project. If you already have some tools, bring them and we can supply you with whatever you don’t already own. All the larger or specialized equipment such as torches, kilns, hammers, vises, setting tools, daps, drawplates, mandrels, pickle, mills, steel blocks, third arms, enamels, etc are provided for student use free of charge.

Q: What class is appropriate for my skill level ?

A: At JAI we teach students individually and at their own pace. Within any one class or intensive you will find students at every level from beginner to advanced. You choose your class schedule according to what is convenient for you. Workshops on specific topics are listed with appropriate skill level.

Q: When can I begin?

A: As long as a seat is available in your desired class, we are happy to enroll you anytime, even mid-semester.

Q: Can I come and see the school?

A: Yes! We are always happy to show people around. Please contact us via our Contact Page to schedule a visit.

Q: What forms of payment do you accept?

A: We accept cash, personal checks, Visa, Mastercard, and Paypal

After mastering a core curriculum, students may continue to work within the classical tradition or build on foundational techniques to take their work in new directions. All Jewelry Arts classes take place in our newly renovated studio and are led by teams of master craftspeople and working jewelry designers. With one teacher for every 4-5 students, those who attend Jewelry Arts classes are able to learn at their own pace and receive the neccesary instruction to successfully complete every project. 

Through intensive, one-on-one instruction, Jewelry Arts students complete a series of projects designed to teach classical jewelry-making techniques. Jewelry Arts projects are based on masterpieces of classical jewelry found in the world’s most prestigious museums, and teach skills that can be incorporated into a lifetime of later work.a handful of institutions around the world teaching classical methods of making fine jewelry.