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The Basic Lapidary Class will provide students with a fundamental understanding of the materials, safety and machine operations that are used in the lapidary arts.  You must take this course in order to work independently in the Shop.  This class in a combination of pre-study, lecture and practical activities that will provide a foundation for success in the lapidary science and arts.

 

Class size will be limited to four students to provide close supervision with the diamond saws and grinders.  Class will be presented in one day, starting at 9 AM and will continue until complete.  We anticipate an hour lunch break.  Our focus will be to teach basic cutting, shaping and polishing skills and ensure you understand how to work safely in the shop.  

You will need to read provided material and come to class prepared to get your hands dirty 

and cut some rocks.  In general, wear clothing that you are not afraid to get oily because the saws are oil cooled.  Any long hair should be put up, and clothing on the arms and torso should be a snug fit.  All the equipment you will be working with will have rotating components, and loose clothing can cause problems. 

 

We start with a short lecture, then learn the slab and trim saws where you will cut two rocks, and set dop sticks.  Following lunch, we transition to another short lecture and continue with cab grinders and by the end of the day you should have two finished cabs and a basic understanding of beginning lapidary arts.  Students who complete the beginning class can then come to the Shop on Tuesdays  from 11:00 - 3:00 for continued instruction.

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The tuition is $50 to cover the cost of your consumables and use of the shop.   All materials are provided.  This class must be taken in order for you to work independently in the shop. You must be a member to take the course.  

 

For those interested in signing up for Basic Lapidary, fill out the Contact Form and you will be contacted about class availability.

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