Best Jewelry Workshops In Washington Near Me

Vincent: I have been taking classes here since May 2021. The studio is very well equipped, and I always feel as though I am learning the correct way to perform any given task. The classes are challenging and sometimes I get frustrated, but I always walk away knowing that I have learned something new and created a quality piece of jewelry. Even in the frustrating times, Dan is more than willing to spend one-on-one time with students to ensure they are completing the assignments correctly. Aside from group classes, I also worked with Dan to design and fabricate an engagement ring for my fiancé. This experience was great! We were both on the same page with what we wanted to achieve. Dan was very patient throughout and made sure that we made the perfect ring for my fiancé (who also takes classes from Dan). This time was invaluable to me and the development of my skillset. -Great teacher -Great equipment -Great people

Kim Hay: Best in DC for jewelry making classes. Thirty benches, wide array of tools, methods, metals and settings. Dan is way helpful to all students in his classes!

Marjorie Resnick-Waxman: JewelryClass Dc is truly a standout artists studio housed in idyllic Capitol Hill DC. It is a school run by master goldsmith Daniel Valencia. He offers workshops, classes of all levels, private sessions and these amazingly unique wedding band workshops where engaged couples can design and then forge their own meaningful masterpieces (under Daniel's watchful eye). I have witnessed many of these workshops and can honestly say there is no better way to enter into the contract of marriage than by designing your own ring. I started taking beginning workshops in August of 2019. I came with zero experience, only excitement. I quickly fell in love with the silversmithing process and signed up for the professional level extended program which is around 10 months. During that time, Daniel and his staff of exceptional teachers are there to support and guide you. You have your own bench and supplies for the contracted time (extended only) and can attend any workshop and class that is offered. If you come in for classes or workshops, you are also given tools and a bench to work with - all materials are supplied. Extended students even get to go to NYC with Dan and Laura (another wonderful Goldsmith) and connect with stone dealers in the Jewelry district. Phenomenal experience. The plus of being a student is you can come in and pay for extra bench time to work on your craft. The hours of the studio are pretty great - it's almost always open. It's an unbelievable opportunity to learn a trade in the most professional way. In fact, the studio itself is exceptional. Daniel has stocked the space with every tool you could ever want or need and he allows students to use them once they are taught the proper way. Nobody has to share their personal tools. He even has a computer screen over his teaching bench so you could watch his hands during demonstrations. When you enter the space, you are met by the coolest graffiti hallway of sayings by past and present students. The vibe is exactly what you want from a professional artists studio in the heart of a blooming community. I was able to even start my own small business selling jewelry since January. Daniel and crew have been incredible in helping me find my path and support my journey. I couldn't recommend this school or Daniel Valencia enough. Daniel is super fun and masterful. Whether you want to try a Metals 1 class to just try it or learn a trade from the very best - I suggest you come to JewelryClassDC.

Monica K: Hands down, this is the best place to go if you want to learn how to make jewelry as a hobbyist or if you would like to turn it into a successful career. I walked into Dan's studio two years ago, thinking I was going to take one Metals I class and move on with my personal endeavors. I fell in love with the place, signed up for Metals II, and then for the extended study/ semi private study program. I was assigned to my own workbench, that was well equipped with more than what an average student would typically have (thus expanding my knowledge even more). I also received plenty of personal instruction from Dan, as well as Laura (his amazing assistant), and exchanged creative ideas/ concepts with the other students as well. The extended study program is also great, because Dan invites the students to New York City to personally meet some of the oldest and top diamond/gemstone sellers, cutters and manufacturers in the industry. This was an invaluable experience, because I established relationships with other professionals in the industry. I started out not knowing anything about creating jewelry from metal. Now I know how to create beautiful pieces of my own, and I have gained the skills and confidence to explore a career path in the jewelry industry. I have learned the correct techniques and processes of jewelry fabrication that will always ensure my final project to be nothing less than professional quality. There are also various workshops throughout the year that cover topics from flush setting, soldering, jewelry repair and etching just to list a few. Oh and let's not forget the set up and decor of the studio! Not only is Dan's studio well equipped with the most up to date machinery and tools, he also has an an array of vintage anvils and metalsmithing tools for display and some for usage. There is every tool available to get whatever task you need completed. He also uses his space to host gem sales throughout the year as well. Dan's sense of his creativity, wit and humor makes your learning experience even more enjoyable. I no longer reside in D.C., but whenever I visit, Jewelry Class D.C.'s studio is one of my second homes :)

Stephanie Wong: I personally recommend Jewelryclassdc if you are interested in fabricating jewelry in precious metals, regardless if you are a beginner wanting to learn the creative skill or a practitioner wanting to hone your skill – you will agree with me that there is always something new to learn in jewelry fabrication! Dan Valencia and his assistants are highly experienced and encouraging, key to grow and sustain interest in a skill that requires long hours of practice. I was a beginner in metalsmithing when I started Metal l classes 2 years ago. After only a few classes, I was hooked on creating and making beautiful Sterling Silver pieces with gemstones – yes, all the pieces you create and make in class are in Sterling Silver! I took a few Metal ll classes and intensive workshops in soldering, flush setting and etching, before I enrolled for the Extended Study program that allows more days, flexible hours and private instructions at the studio. I was assigned a fully-equipped individual work bench and have access to a wide array of tools available at the studio. Jewelryclassdc is very well equipped with tools, acquired for professional and personal reasons, ranging from the latest laser welding machine to century-old antique anvils, hammers and punches. It is such a joy using the mix of high-tech and traditional tools to create the beautiful jewelry pieces. During my extended study program, I worked with Dan to design and create my own jewelry collection. I must say I have improved immensely from where I started, from having only vague ideas of what I wanted to create to realizing them into gorgeous pieces. Dan also organizes field trips to New York City once a semester for all extended study students to meet with the jewelry industry players such as gems/diamonds manufacturers and dealers – a valuable engagement especially for those wanting to build a viable jewelry making business.

Charlie Held: I took the introduction to jewelry making class and it was amazing! I made three great sterling rings, copper practice ring, and a sterling bracelet and I have no experience. It was worth every penny. It will make a great Christmas or birthday gift. Just make sure you don't do what I did, "I think her rings stop about here, maybe"

David Lee: Positive: Professionalism, Quality, Responsiveness, ValueDan the Man! I went into this class thinking why? Now I know why. From day 1 Dan helped me every step of the way. The value you get from the classes is unmatched from any jewelry school I’ve researched on the east coast. I’m now taking metals II and love every second of it.

Alexandra M: Dan is an excellent teacher. I started taking classes last May and kept signing up every session. Dan is very generous with his knowledge and expertise and genuinely wants his students to learn. He not only teaches the skills of metalsmithing but advises his students on many other aspects of the jewelry world such as how to purchase stones, tools and equipment. The studio is in excellent condition and we only use high quality tools. Dan's attention to detail is incredible and the classes and workshops are organized and executed so well. It feels easy, comfortable and welcoming to be there. I have taken a class with Emily as well, who is also a natural teacher and very generous with her expertise. Jewelryclassdc is a great place for short term students too. The Metals 1 class is very satisfying because you make and take home several beautiful pieces. However, I intend to be a long term student with Dan, Emily and Laura because they are genuine teachers that put a hell of a lot of effort into their students and have created an exceptional space.

Diane Millar: I just finished the Metals I intensive class and it was GREAT! I knew nothing about metal work at all, and I finished 3 rings, 2 pairs of earrings, and a bracelet. The materials we used were all of the highest quality - so all of the end products look very professional. The whole studio is really well-equipped and the class size small - so you can get lots of help, while learning the right way to do things. Dan and Emily were both great teachers - taking us step by step and answering any/all questions as we went. I really enjoyed the creative challenge of each process. Highly recommended if you want to learn how to make high quality, professional jewelry. Many thanks!

Lindsey Dinneen: My husband and I took a couple's ring-making class together, and had a wonderful time learning how to crate embossed silver bands. The instructors were welcoming, kind, patient, and thoroughly explained each step so that we felt ready to take it when our time came. We embossed, cut, annealed, bent, soldered, and polished our rings. What a fun and unique date night!

Ronak Patel: I highly recommend visiting Wear Ever! It’s in a great area with plenty of things to do. In addition, the couple’s jewelry making class is super fun and the rings you leave with are really nice. It is a bit pricey but not unreasonable given the equipment you have access to and what you leave with. I didn’t get a chance to check out the jewelry they have to offer but I definitely plan on going back.

Danaya “Pie” Chusuwan: Took couple's ring making class and it was wonderful. The ring is Sterling Silver with copper mixed. There are 3 design pattern for you to choose and you have the option to oxidize the ring. You gain the first hand experience on how ring band are made.

Janet Lipscomb: Thankful to have found Wear Ever Jewelry. Jennifer is a creative and calm teacher. If you want to learn how to make jewelry, the classes here are great!

Caryn Wagner: I bought a gorgeous ring during the sidewalk sale for a great discount. Like all the pieces at Wear Ever, it is one of a kind, distinctive, well-made and surprisingly affordable. The owner, who designed and made the ring, sized it for me for free, which given what a deal I was getting, I thought was awesome. If you haven't stopped in to check out their designs, you should do so the next time you are on King Street!

Vlad Kovalevski: We did a ring making class at the studio and it turned out to be an amazing experience. Beth and Jennifer, who teach the class, are true professionals and excellent teacher - they will walk you through every step and provide help, if needed, to make sure you leave with the ring that looks good and can be wearable every day. Highly recommend!

Dawn Young: Loved it! Jennifer is an excellent instructor. Looking forward to the next class.

David Sweatt: My girlfriend and I celebrated our anniversary by doing the couple's ring making class here. Not only was the class fun and informative, the instructors were very friendly, welcoming, kind, and made the experience really fun. 10/10 recommend!

Jennifer Jiggetts: Wear Ever Jewelry truly is a gem in the DMV area. Their ring making course proved to be the perfect date night for my girlfriend and I. It exceeded expectations and the instructor was extremely knowledgeable about metal-smithing. We needed no experience to participate in the course. Wear Ever followed COVID-19 precautions so we felt safe. They even offered Oreos during the three-hour course! What a great bonding experience for couples!

PHOENIX BEYESUS: Since my go to crystal shop Beaddazzled in Falls Church ,VA is closed, I have been trying to find that one place I can go to get my crystals. I traveled for an hour and half to get to S&S Beads today. I was excited about my first visit. Two young ladies were in the store. One was very helpful and friendly ( I wish if I asked her name) But the other one ruined my experience!!! You would expect the best when you go to a crystal store. Whatever her day might had been , her service was awful and very disrespectful. I would have spent more money in the store today and in the future if I didn't pick up her negative energy. I couldn't stay as I wished. Young lady,I am sending you love & light. Heal better. Or let others handle the business. Word of advice focus on what you are good at. Customer service is not for everyone.

Cara Valley: I absolutely LOVE this shop! I’ve been coming to this store for over 30 years for all my jewelry supplies and crystals and they always have everything I need. Emily, the owner, and her staff are all incredibly helpful and kind. They’re also very knowledgeable and all make beautiful jewelry! I’m still learning about crystals, but they’re always eager to assist me in finding what I need. They go above and beyond to help me find the crystals that are right for me. They’re always happy to tell me about any crystal properties or even find a crystal based on properties that I’m looking for. I definitely recommend shopping at this great store for a lovely and enjoyable experience. Love you S&A!

Tatum Soleil: I absolutely love this shop. Everyone who works there is so kind, helpful, and knowledgeable! I had an amazing time speaking with Emily, who was attentive and seemed happy to be help me. I was also thoroughly impressed with Johanna and her incredible artwork. It’s clear how skilled Johanna is at her craft and how much love she puts into it. I will definitely be back!

Marissa Neel: This shop is amazing! I especially love Johanna’s work. She makes the most beautifully crafted electroform and wire wrap jewelry. Her work is so professional and high quality. You can really tell she has taken the time to perfect her craft. I would highly recommend this shop to a friend! :)

Tammy Sibert: I’ve shopped with S&A beads for 15 years. The selection of beads is great. However, the owners daughter is so curt and unfriendly, it makes the shopping experience uncomfortable. Maybe I came on a bad day for her or maybe it’s her personality? I don’t know. However, experience with other sales people, including Larry, has always been engaging, informative and pleasant. And because I live in the neighborhood, I enjoy stopping in for quick chats.

Kelley Lane: I never write reviews, but I had such a fabulous experience with S&A Beads that I feel compelled to do so!!! I heard about this place from a friend in DC when I complemented her on her earrings over Zoom. I went to their website and I found a necklace that I LOVED but it was sold out. I took a chance and called the store to see if they could make something using the same kinds of stones. They ended up making something even better than what I saw originally! Thank you again to Emily for taking all of my design ideas over the phone and then translating them into this gorgeous-ness. I’m wearing it now and I am truly obsessed!!!

Brian Gladden: I told the staff, "coming into their shop is almost like visiting the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History, only you can walk out with whatever you like - providing it's paid for!"

Sarah King: The store is beautiful and well laid out.I went in to pass the time making a pair of earrings on a super hot day. What a relaxing, great hour spent. Lovely, helpful salespeople, nice atmosphere and conversation and SO many interesting beautiful things.

Levita Mondie: I love S & A Beads! I have been going there for over 20 years! I love the staff because they are knowledgeable, skilled, and friendly! The selection of beads is wide, beautiful, high-quality, and priced affordably!