Unique to Forge, this small group Stone Cutting Workshop with Rob Girling is designed as a hands-on introduction to gemstone faceting, cutting, and polishing.

Over the course of the day, you’ll explore the three main cutting styles and methods:

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  Jamb Peg – the oldest and most traditional method

  
  


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  Sri Lankan Handpiece Faceting – the most widely used method for production stones worldwide

  
  


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  Mast Faceting – the most accurate style of gemstone cutting

  
  

You’ll gain both practical experience and an understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of each method. Rob will also introduce you to working with both natural and lab-grown materials, and share insights on where and how to source rough stones, along with the pros and cons of each.

Special discount to FORGE Friends, enter your code at checkout 

What will I make?

This workshop is designed primarily as an introduction to gemstone faceting. You’ll get  experience in the three main techniques and develop a foundation in the essential skills.

Due to the time required for gemstone cutting, you won’t complete a finished stone to take away, but you’ll leave with practical knowledge and confidence in the process.

What will I learn?

You’ll gain an introduction to key techniques and core concepts in gemstone cutting:

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  Rough selection and analysis

  
  


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  Preforming rough for cutting

  
  


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  Dopping (waxing stones onto dops for cutting)

  
  


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  Reading and understanding facet diagrams

  
  


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  Mast-style cutting and polishing

  
  


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  Sri Lankan handpiece cutting and polishing

  
  


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  Jamb Peg cutting and polishing

  
  

What will happen on the day?

The day will begin with an introduction to the different types of gemstone faceting and how these methods developed over time. Rob will guide you through the history and evolution of the techniques, helping you understand not only how they are used today but also the advantages and disadvantages of each approach.

You’ll then move on to exploring rough gemstones and materials. Together, you’ll discuss how to select and assess rough stones, looking at both natural and lab-grown options, and considering their different uses, benefits, and limitations.

From there, Rob will demonstrate the various stages of gemstone cutting and polishing. You’ll gain an overview of the processes before getting hands-on experience yourself.

The majority of the workshop will focus on practical learning. With Rob’s guidance, you’ll have the opportunity to try rough selection, preforming, and dopping. You’ll then progress to practicing the three main cutting and polishing methods: Mast cutting, Sri Lankan handpiece cutting, and Jamb Peg cutting. By the end of the day, you’ll have experienced each style and built a strong foundation in gemstone faceting.

What skills level is required?

All levels Workshops that are designed to be flexible and accommodate all skill levels.

What should I bring?

- Pen and Paper

- Reading glasses (if you need them!) 

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 hammer or something hot on them!

Hair: Tie long hair back.

Who is my instructor? 

Rob Girling is a multi disciplined master craftsman with over 20 years’ experience designing and manufacturing high end fine jewellery for private clients around the world. Rob is unique in the jewellery and gemstone cutting world as he is the only craftsman to use all methods of cutting.

How do I book?

To book your workshop, simply add your chosen session to your basket by clicking Add to Cart, then click on the basket icon in the top right corner to proceed to checkout.

Please remember to provide your email address and phone number. We use this information only to confirm your booking, share details about the day, and contact you if any issues arise. Your contact details will not be used for marketing purposes unless you choose to opt in by ticking the box to receive updates from us.