Jewellery and Gem Setting

Tutor in Residence

Rex Steele Merten, Hurstville

Rex is a professional jeweller and artist who has worked in the jewellery industry since he was an apprentice at Hardy Brothers, Vice-Regal Jewellers in 1953. During his career, Rex has won four Diamonds-International Awards, the “Oscars” of world-wide jewellery design, plus many Australian design awards. Now with over thirty years’ experience of teaching in TAFE and the McGregor Summer and Winter Schools, Rex is able to lead the participants in his master classes to sound practical techniques supported by professional teaching practice.

Course Synopsis

For more than a decade, Rex has guided participants in his master classes through the enchantments of creating beautiful and innovative jewellery. As a jeweller who is also a professional gem setter, Rex will incorporate some of the gem-setting techniques into this course. Participants will be show techniques which have been jealously guarded by jewellery industry professionals. Rex has taught these skills to his peers and has devised a program whereby these same skills can be taught at an accessible and enjoyable level. Rex has written a special curriculum for this class, and can even supply a gem setting kit and detailed notes for those unable to source the specialised tools and gems to get started.

Level

Intermediate to advanced

Materials

Estimated material cost:  $60-$90 for silver – most students will already have the basic tools. Kits can be ordered from Rex for $320. A materials list will be provided to students on enrolment, or contact the office if you wish to peruse it before enrolling.

Enrol

You are able to enrol on-line or an enrolment form is in pdf format for you to complete and either fax or post.