Damascus Steel Jewelry

Pattern welded steel, otherwise known as Damascus steel, is typically used in the bladesmithing world to make all manner of beautifully crafted sharp implements. However, this very same beauty and luster can also be utilized within the realm of jewelry as well! In this class, we will take cut-off sheets of Damascus steel and create stunning cabochons. Students will learn how to cut, grind, shape, and polish high carbon tool steel into cabochons of their own shape and design. Hardening, tempering, and other nitty-gritty elements of steel working will be covered too, along with a brief history of the usage of steel-cut cabochons in jewelry. Setting solutions will be touched upon as well, along with some very key information about how to avoid cross-contamination in a jewelry-making studio.  At first glance, working with steel can seem daunting if you’re use to non-ferrous metals—however, with a little practice and some patience, it can prove to be a valuable addition to any jeweler’s repertoire. Students can expect to create finished cabochons as well as several pieces of finished jewelry using the cabochons.