Gemstone Flower Stud Earrings Tutorial - Intermediate Jewellery Making Project

Is this course suitable for complete beginners?

This is an intermediate-level project that requires some prior silversmithing experience. You should have some previous experience with:

• Using a jeweller's saw and needle files

• Basic soldering techniques with a blowtorch

• Working with sterling silver sheet and wire

If you're completely new to jewellery making, I recommend starting with a beginner projects like the Skinny Stacking Rings to build your foundation skills first. (All the projects are included in the membership)

How long does this project take to complete?

The course includes 15 video lessons plus bonus technical tutorials that you can watch at your own pace. Most students complete their earrings over 2-3 hours, depending on their experience level.

Because this project involves multiple techniques (sawing, forming, soldering, setting), I recommend taking your time and not rushing. You have unlimited access to the course, so you can pause, rewatch, and work at a pace that suits you.

What type of gemstones should I use?

You'll need two 5mm round cabochon gemstones for this project. Cabochons have a flat base and a domed top and work perfectly with bezel settings. Supplier links can be found in the Members area

Do I need special tools for stone setting?

Yes, you'll need a few specific setting tools to secure your gemstones:

• A pusher (to push the bezel over the stone)

• A burnisher (to smooth and polish the bezel)

• A ring clamp (to hold your work steady)

• Blu tack (to get the stone in and out of the setting and to support the earring while setting)

These are standard stone-setting tools that you'll use again and again for future projects. I demonstrate exactly how to use each tool in the video lessons, so even if you've never set a stone before, you'll feel confident by the end!

Can I customise the flower design?

Absolutely! The course includes 18 printable flower templates in the PDF downloads, so you can choose your favourite design or create multiple pairs with different flower shapes. You can also:

• Adjust the size of the flowers (larger and smaller sizes are included)

• Experiment with different textures on the petals

• Use different gemstone colours for seasonal or birthstone collections

• Create asymmetrical pairs with two different flower designs

This flexibility makes the project perfect for building a collection or offering bespoke options to customers.

Will my earrings be solid silver?

Yes! Your earrings will be made from sterling silver sheet (92.5% silver) for the flower forms and fine silver bezel strip (99.9% silver) for the settings. The stud posts and jump rings are also sterling silver.

What if I get stuck or need help?

As a Cognac Jewellery School member, you get 1-2-1 support from me if you need it. You can reach out via email or the members' forum, and I'll help troubleshoot any challenges you're facing.

Plus, you have unlimited access to all the video lessons, so you can rewatch any technique as many times as you need. I also include bonus technical tutorials that dive deeper into specific skills.

Can I sell earrings I make from this course?

Yes! Once you've learned the techniques, you're welcome to create and sell your own gemstone flower stud earrings. This design is particularly popular for:

• Birthstone collections (make a pair for each month!)

• Bespoke commissions with customers' favourite gemstones or colours

• Bridal jewellery (perfect for bridesmaids' gifts)