Sand Casting with Gems (1 Day)

About this course

The course introduces Delft Clay sand casting adapted for placing gemstones directly into molten metal. Technical demonstrations are followed by hands-on practice in preparing sand moulds, securing stones and pouring metal to form silver pieces. It also covers choosing suitable stones, reducing the risk of heat shock and completing cast designs through cleaning and polishing. Participants work from original items, found objects or available models to produce cast-in-place jewellery.

What you'll learn

• Prepare sand moulds using the Delft Clay casting method.
• Select suitable stones for cast-in-place jewellery and secure them for casting.
• Pour molten metal to create silver pieces incorporating gemstones.
• Apply techniques for reducing heat shock during the casting process.
• Clean and polish cast jewellery to complete the finished design.

Is this course right for you?

Listed at Beginner level, the course is presented as an introduction to a tactile jewellery-making process rather than as a progression from stated prior experience. It combines technical demonstrations with hands-on practice, with participants developing their own silver projects from original items, found objects or available models.

Before you go

• Tools and equipment needed for the course are supplied.
• Sterling silver casting grain is included, while participants may optionally bring sterling silver scrap or old jewellery to melt and recycle.
• A selection of cubic zirconia stones and jewellery models is provided. Participants may bring their own suitable stones or original items.
• Closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing for a workshop environment are required.