The Workbench Guide to Jewelry Techniques

by Anastasia Young

This comprehensive and ambitious workshop reference for jewelers brings together a vast range of skills, techniques, and technical data into one volume. Offering detailed explanations and step-by-step photography to demonstrate procedures, this handbook includes a complete reference section featuring tool shapes, an index of gems, a glossary, standard sizes and measurements, conversion tables, and an extensive list of resources. Additionally, the manual offers a directory of tools and materials--including a key to identifying tools for a "beginner's kit"--a historical introduction to jewelry, and suggestions for photographing and promoting completed pieces. Remarkable cutting-edge pieces by jewelry makers and designers from around the world are used to illustrate the various processes involved in creating exceptional jewelry. Covering everything from traditional metalsmithing skills and using alternative materials, such as plastics and resin, to discussing issues involved with outsourcing work to specialist external suppliers, this is an indispensable and essential resource for both students and professionals.

Genres: Jewellery, Reference, Art, Jewellery Making, Crafts, Nonfiction, Design

320 pages, Hardcover

First published March 15, 2010

Reviews

[Dianna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great intro manual/textbook/workbench reference! Extremely well done + beautifully illustrated. Covers an array of techniques. An obligatory studio reference.

I must add, that when I was gifted this, I was also gifted my sister's faith in me, and a glimmer of the support that she continues to give to me, as a budding jeweler. What a gesture!!!

[Cynbel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great reference for any jewler, it covers a little bit of everything which is great for getting started or to give interest in specific areas.

[Jerrika · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really like a textbook breaking down everything you need to know about starting to make your own jewelry. Really appreciate the pictures, guides for beginners, and the section for those who want to sell their jewelry. Would definitely recommend this for those getting started.

[Ligaya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent textbook for beginning jewelers, metalworkers, and inquisitive crafters. This book covers so many aspects of jewelry techniques, as the title states, and although the author can't do a deep dive on each subject, she does explain things fairly clearly but concisely. Lots of quality photos and graphics. The photos of contemporary jewelry pieces is especially interesting. This book is on my BUY list.

[Michele · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent introduction to the various aspects of jewelry making.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I MUST have this for my own someday soon!