Pearl necklace by Judy Schaefer (student 2011)

Level: All Skill Levels
Requirements: None
Program: Spring
Status: Open
Length: 1 Days
Tuition: $ 95
Only $ 90.25 for registration before 13 March 2012
Materials: TBA
Date: April 13, 2012 - April 13, 2012
Time: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Location: Metalwerx

This class is a wonderful opportunity to learn from a true expert in the pearl trade: Mary Stachura of Joseph Stachura, Inc., gemstone dealers who are regulars at Metalwerx 's Vendor Day. Mary has traveled through the pearl-producing countries of the Far East for over 20 years. Beautiful pearls are her passion--one she loves to share with others.

The focus of this class is to learn proper knotting technique and termination methods. We begin with an overview of the types and shapes of pearls - freshwater, saltwater, cultured, natural, Akoya, South Sea, Tahitian, etc. The variety & treatments are seemingly endless. We will then present a checklist of how to buy a good strand of pearls & how to spot fakes. From there, we'll discuss proper care of pearls.

During class, you'll learn several termination methods: crimping (yuck! but sometimes necessary), attaching to a clasp using a bead tip, attaching to a clasp using French Wire/bouillon [a delicate metal coil that protects the silk at the end of the strand - it's like a tiny slinky). You'll learn how to create an endless necklace (no clasp at all). We'll also discuss design possibilities and challenges. During the class you will have an opportunity to purchase a wide variety of pearls, directly from Stachura, Inc.'s extensive inventory.

Materials & Tools

If you wish to purchase the kit, please advise us by Friday, April 6 (we will send out a reminder). You are welcome to bring any of the items below with you to class. Do not bring glass beads, as they are not appropriate for beginning stringers. If you have any questions, you can email Mary at mary@stachurawholesale.com or call 508-278-6525.

$35 Basic Kit:

Includes silk, beading tweezers, beading needles, glue, bead tips, clasps, and nippers.

$55 Basic Kit plus Pearls:

Includes all of the items listed above in the basic kit, plus freshwater pearls.

Note to students bringing their own pearls:

If you are bringing your own pearls, please bring freshwater pearls that are 4mm or larger. While you can knot with any type/size of pearl, these will have more consistent holes and the overall size will be easier to work with as a beginner.

Students Should Bring:

• pen
• notebook
• optivisor if you require magnification
• good quality embroidery scissors or a pair of nippers
• clean hand towel (terry cloth works nicely)