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Whether you're inspired by Vivienne Westwood, Coco Chanel, or Queen Elizabeth II's signature pearl necklaces, multi-strand pearl necklaces embody elegance and sophistication while challenging traditional norms of status and gender.

This one-day short course is a continuation of our traditional pearl stringing workshop, designed to take your skills to the next level. Whether you're a beginner or have prior experience, join experienced pearl stringer Anja Moehler to learn how to string and restring this timeless accessory.

Anja will guide you through creating a three-row necklace from start to finish. You'll explore various necklace styles, from chokers and princess lengths to ropes, using graduated or uniform pearls. Learn how to select pearls, professionally string them, and complete your work to a high standard, enhancing your design portfolio and services.

With a mix of demonstrations, hands-on practice, and personalized guidance, this course covers everything from troubleshooting common issues to refining your repair services. Pearl stringing is an accessible and valuable skill that requires precision and patience but minimal investment in equipment, making it an excellent addition to your skill set and business offerings.

Our small class size offers you the chance to get a 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 the pearl stringing process.

How will this course help my practice?

Delivered in person at the Goldsmiths’ Centre, this course will help you:

• Broaden your skill set by mastering pearl stringing techniques.
• Deepen your understanding of pearls, including gemmological facts and care tips.
• Expand your services to include bespoke designs, repairs, and event jewellery like wedding collections.
• Improve efficiency by managing pearl stringing and repairs in-house.
• Build trust with clients by sharing knowledge and offering personalized services.

What does the course cover?

• Pearl Selection: Learn about pearl types and their properties
• Materials and Tools: Introduction to stringing tools, materials, and various techniques used in pearl and gemstone bead jewellery.
• Professional Stringing Techniques: Knotting between pearls; securing multi-row clasps; and completing a partially knotted three-strand necklace.
• Troubleshooting and Repairs: Tips for addressing common stringing challenges and caring for pearl jewellery.
• Live Demonstrations: Detailed, step-by-step instructions, including live-stream video for better clarity.

By the end of the day, you’ll complete a multi-strand pearl necklace and gain confidence in advanced stringing techniques.

What do I need to bring with me?

All materials and equipment are provided, but you’re welcome to bring your own pearls. The tutor will assess their suitability during the session. 

Optional:

• Spectacles or magnifying head visor for detailed work.
• Notebook and pen for notetaking.

Important: Please arrive with clean, dry hands to preserve the delicate materials. Avoid hand creams, gels, or any substances that may stain threads or pearls.

What will I be provided with?

• All stringing tools and equipment needed to string pearls.
• A selection of approximate 6mm and 8mm pearls Sterling silver findings.

Who is this course designed for?

This course is designed for Beginners and Intermediate - while not strictly necessary, some previous stringing experience will be beneficial. This is an excellent next step following up on our Traditional Pearl Stringing short course with Anja Moehler.

Participants should be comfortable with using pliers, thin needles and cutters. Please inform The Goldsmiths’ Centre’s team (minimum 1-week prior course starting) if you have any hand injuries, chronical ailments in hands, wrists or fingers so we can accommodate you and your needs for this course.

Beginner: Limited prior experience required.

Participants at the beginner level should have a basic understanding of workshop practices and some exposure to handling tools and materials. This level is ideal for those who may have minimal practical experience but are looking to expand their knowledge and skills. The course will focus on building confidence in using essential tools and techniques. Instruction will guide participants through fundamental tasks, emphasizing accuracy and good habits as they develop the ability to work more independently.

Intermediate: Practical experience and understanding of listed skills required.

Participants at the intermediate level should have prior experience in a workshop environment and the ability to work independently on fundamental tasks. They should be comfortable with processes and possess a working knowledge of pearl stringing techniques. This level focuses on refining basic skills, introducing more complex tasks, and developing the ability to troubleshoot and work with greater precision and autonomy.

Do you have any access requirements?

We are committed to making our training programmes and events as inclusive and accessible as possible. If you have any access requirements, please inform us as early as possible so we can make the necessary arrangements. While we will do our best to accommodate your needs, advance notice is essential to ensure we can provide appropriate support.

To discuss your requirements when booking tickets for our Goldsmiths’ Centre training programmes, please contact us at boxoffice@goldsmiths-centre.org

Can I receive financial support to access this course?

We believe that talent should not be held back. Here at the Goldsmiths’ Centre, we are open, accessible and inclusive to all. Our Access Grants help anyone to build thriving creative careers, supporting jewellers, silversmiths and allied industry practitioners to access our training courses for free.

If you need help to cover fees for our business and technical skills short courses, please apply for one of our Access Grants. To find out more and read our application criteria, click here

The Access Grants are delivered by the Goldsmiths' Centre and funded through modern philanthropic giving, via the Goldsmiths’ Foundation, from members of the Goldsmiths’ Company.

Who is the tutor?

Anja Moehler is an experienced pearl stringer, jewellery maker/designer, and gemmologist. Originally from Berlin she started in the UK jewellery trade 15 years ago. Before venturing out as a freelance Pearl stringer and instructor in 2024, Anja was the sole pearl stringer for Tiffany & Co. for 6 years, showcasing the craft and training other Pearl stringers. Anja has conducted stringing and beading workshops here at the Goldsmiths Centre and other prestigious venues such as the V&A Museum in London and is very passionate about sharing her skills with other designers and jewellers. By empowering them to expand their skill set and incorporate pearls into their designs, she aims to bring a whole new level of versatility and creativity to their jewellery business.