LEARN-TO: Decorative Surface Techniques with Argentium Silver [MAY 2026]
Date: Friday 01 May, 2026
Start Time: 10am
End Time: 4:30pm
Venue: FORGE
Visiting from the US, Ronda Coryell will introduce her specialist approach to working with Argentium Silver through demonstration and guided making. The focus of this workshop is Argentium’s ability to fuse decorative elements directly onto textured surfaces without solder. This is especially valuable when working with pattern and texture, as it allows you to add detail without the risk of solder flowing across the surface and spoiling crisp marks.
You will explore how to create rich decorative surfaces using techniques such as texturing, stamping, fused wire decoration and granulation, while also gaining an understanding of the wider benefits of Argentium, including its tarnish resistance, bright white colour and clean working qualities. The workshop is ideal for jewellers who want to expand their surface techniques and learn a cleaner, more controlled approach to decorative silver work.
Special discount to FORGE Friends, enter your code at checkout
What will I make?
You will create a series of decorative Argentium Silver samples and may develop them into a small finished piece, such as a ring or pendant, depending on your pace.
What will I learn?
You will learn how to use Argentium Silver for decorative surface work, with a particular focus on fusing embellishments onto textured metal without solder. This opens up new design possibilities and helps preserve surface detail.
Techniques covered include:
– Understanding the key properties of Argentium Silver
– Heat control for successful fusing
– Creating texture through hammering, stamping and patterning
– Fusing decorative wires and granules
– Building layered surface detail cleanly
– Finishing work while preserving texture and definition
What will happen on the day?
The day begins with an introduction to Argentium Silver and a look at samples that show how texture and fused decoration can work together. Ronda will demonstrate the core techniques, including surface texturing, heat control, fusing wire and granulation, while sharing practical tips for working cleanly and confidently with the material.
You will then move into hands on making, exploring the techniques for yourself and developing your own samples or small finished piece with guidance throughout. By the end of the workshop, you will leave with new technical knowledge, a stronger understanding of Argentium, and practical ideas to take into your own work.
What skills do I need?
All levels
This workshop is designed to be flexible and accommodate all skill levels. Suitable for those new to decorative techniques as well as experienced jewellers looking to expand their surface design vocabulary.
What should I bring?
- Reading glasses (if you need them!)
- Notebook and pen (to take notes and sketch designs)
- Apron to protect clothes
All essential tools and materials will be provided.
What should I wear?
Clothes: Casual and not too precious as they may get a bit dusty or damaged. Avoid long, loose fitting sleeves and anything that might catch or get caught whilst you are working.
Shoes: Casual flat shoes and no open toed sandals in case you drop a tool or something hot on them!
Hair: Tie long hair back.
Who is my instructor?
Ronda Coryell is a Jewelers of America Certified Master Bench Jeweler and one of the world’s most respected experts on working with Argentium Silver. Teaching has become as important to her as making, and she is passionate about helping students understand not only how Argentium differs from standard sterling, but why those differences matter — encouraging experimentation and pushing beyond familiar techniques.
Founder of the Northwest Chapter of the Florida Society of Goldsmiths, Ronda now devotes her time to lecturing and teaching worldwide, including in Bali, Thailand, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Spain, Portugal, and England. She won First Place in the prestigious Saul Bell Awards, and her work has been featured in key contemporary jewellery publications including 500 Earrings, 500 Bracelets, and The Art and Craft of Jewelry Making.
How do I get there?
See contact page for details on public transport and parking.
Materials Disclaimer
Please note: Workshop material costs are based on metal prices at the time of organising each session. Due to continual fluctuations in precious metal markets, there may be a small increase in the price of materials. If this occurs, we will contact you prior to the workshop to confirm the difference, which can be settled on the day by card.
£175.00