Advanced Level Bench Seminar
A collaborative effort of Platinum Guild International
and Bench Media
http://www.BenchSeminars.com
This seminar is Beyond the Basics. We’ll show you how to perform techniques others use to succeed, and answer all your questions. You’ll learn what works and what doesn’t, and more productive ways to accomplish your work.
This seminar illustrates a myriad of Advanced Bench Techniques. Rather than just learning from one speaker, you will experience one of the first dual instructed seminars in the industry. This unique seminar format pits two Master Jewelers against each other as they demonstrate their techniques. As they reach into their bag of tricks you’ll be amazed at the information presented.
This full day of seminars is Only $195 with early registration. A small investment that will repay itself many times over.
Platinum Bench Techniques
You’ll start the day off running with Platinum Bench Techniques. You’ll then learn firsthand everything from the fundamentals to the latest in platinum technology and short cuts for platinum repairs and manufacturing from the industries foremost platinum jewelry expert. Acclaimed platinumsmith Jurgen Maerz will provide instruction on a variety of advanced platinum bench techniques, including specialty repairs & sizing, casting platinum in the small shop, polishing and finishing techniques, along with many tips & tricks to working with platinum. You’ll learn the advantages, features, and benefits of different Platinum Alloys to avoid the problems of manufacturing platinum jewelry.
Networking Lunch
A Networking Lunch is included with registration. Sure, being fed during your time with us is nice. But the amazing thing is, you will have a chance to sit down, eat together, and speak informally with our seminar leaders. You also have the opportunity to meet other Bench Jewelers to share tips and discuss problems you maybe having and find solutions that others have found or just time to make new friends and renew relationships. One of the most valuable parts of the Bench Seminar is getting the chance to spend time with people just like you who love to make jewelry! You’ll have time to share with one another and just get together with other people who understand what you are talking about and experiencing.
Advanced Stone Setting
After lunch the day evolves into a duel between our Master Jewelers. Dividing the front of the room, two benches sit across from each other where each jeweler works, demonstrating their techniques to Advanced Setting Projects. One will demonstrate a setting project, and when finished, the other shows his method. Close-up video projection equipment projects the work of each craftsman onto a large screen so everyone in the room can easily see the techniques demonstrated. You’ll learn intricate setting from two perspectives, ranging between Pave, Channel, Flush, Princess, and Marquise. Plus learn tip to working on Invisible Set Jewelry.
Advanced Fabrication
The afternoon continues with fabrication demonstrations from our two Master Bench Jewelers, Brad Simon and Jurgen Maerz. This seminar goes beyond the basics and demonstrates advanced techniques to fabricate complex mountings, multiple stone rings, ornate crowns, and intricate filigree. Soldering and Fusion Welding processes will be discussed as well as advanced forming and shaping techniques. You’ll also learn about how tool selection effects your finished product and how new technology can help you make better jewelry.
Bench Tips & Other Tricks
The day concludes with the always entertaining Bench Tips & Other Tricks. Making and repairing jewelry encompasses only a few basic techniques. However, there are numerous tricks to use in mastering those techniques. This Magical Learning Experience is a fast-paced session of Bench Tips & Tricks that will reveal secrets of Master Jewelers and enlighten you with numerous tips to make your work at the bench easier and more productive. Come and learn what tricks are right for you and make your work at the bench easier and more productive.
This Is One Seminar You Will Not Want To Miss!
Locations & Dates
Philadelphia, PA ~ July 31st
Las Vegas, NV ~ August 21st
Ft Lauderdale, FL ~ September 4th
Portland, OR ~ September 25th
Indianapolis, IN ~ October 2nd
For more information and to register log onto: http://www.BenchSeminars.com


The following seminars on Jewelry Making will be offered at the Bench Jewelers Conference & Expo, April 24 – 27, 2008 in Los Angeles. For details on all the seminars offered, more conference & expo information, and to register go to: 




