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This two-day short course will cover the most recent methods of using air tools and microscopes to arrange diamonds and precious stones cleanly and seamlessly across a surface.

Under expert tuition from award-winning Goldsmith Harry Forster-Stringer, join our short course which will cover micro-setting skills through demonstration and individual practice.

What will I learn?

• Setting up your bench to work effectively
• Microscope, hand piece and control set up
• Preparation of tools (including tools sharpening and polishing for bright cut, especially Carbide gravers)
• Making specialised tools for setting
• Marking preparation for drilling and setting
• See the tools in operation and gain practical experience of using the tools whilst under supervision and with expert guidance
• By the end of the course, you will have created one piece that you can take home and enjoy
• The tutor will work with you as a group and individually and will support and guide you through your learning
• Tips on where best to source equipment needed
• Type of grain setting covered: pavé, flush and time permitting fishtails setting

Our small class size offers you the chance to get group as well as individual guidance and 1:1 time with your tutor, allowing you to receive tailored advice to deepen your knowledge and understanding of this setting technique. 

What do I need to bring with me?

• Protective clothing or clothing you do not mind getting dirty e.g. apron, and closed toe shoes
• Two pairs of accurate dividers
• One scriber
• One flat graver N40
• One spitstick N4/0
• One spitstick N5/0
• Own gravers/spitsticks

Optional:

• You can bring your own spritz stick, scorper and other setting tools
• Spectacles or head visor (if required) to work on small details

You will be provided with: 

• Stones
• Drill bits
• Burrs
• Beading tools
• Practice plates
• GRS equipment

Who is this course designed for?

Advanced: A practicing craftsperson looking to further an existing skill.

This course is suitable for someone who has control of the pendant motor and a good grasp of cutting with scorpers. 

Who is the tutor?

Harry Forster-Stringer is an award-winning professional Goldsmith, Engraver and Enameller based in Nottingham with over 40 years’ trade experience. Starting as a mounter in Birmingham’s jewellery quarter, he made the jump to setting 30 years ago. He now covers a variety of techniques such as Stone-setting, Microsetting and Hand Engraving, as well as enamelling skills acquired under the tutelage of recently passed away respected Master Engraver & Enameller, Phil Barnes. He is a highly experienced tutor at the Goldsmiths’ Centre and successful consultant in the jewellery industry.