Frequently Asked Questions

If you are new to jewellery classes, your first project will be a sterling silver ring fully handmade (by you!!) using traditional techniques. This will give you a basic intro to the main tools and some of the common terminology. For the next project you will have the opportunity to make a simple cut out pendant (or similar object) using a jewellers saw. Controlling a saw is tricky, so we suggest you start with something a little asymmetrical (think leaves, letters of the alphabet, hearts, butterfly, or basic outlines of some interesting shape). If you have an idea already, then feel free to email your rough sketch through in advance. Otherwise, we will have some ready-made templates you can choose from. After the first two projects you can start choosing the types of things you want to make, most people choose to make a bangle or cuff for their third project. Or if you are wanting to perfect your soldering skills, then making a soldered chain bracelet is an excellent (patience testing) project for building confidence working with the soldering flame. These three projects will give you a good feel for a range of jewellery techniques. You will also have seen the other projects being made by other students in your class and seen some of the examples Josh has made around the workshop. This mean you will have a better idea of the range of things you will be able to create in our classes, and you can start choosing what sort of projects interest you (don’t worry if you are unsure what to make as we have an extensive list of projects to inspire you if you are undecided). The jewellery classes we offer are very hands on, so you will get a great experience of what handmade jewellery is all about.

If you have already done jewellery classes (with us, or elsewhere), that's great. You are very welcome to join a class, because there is always more to learn! Once you have booked into your class, please contact us before your first class, so we can discuss what projects you have in mind. This way, we can make sure we have the correct materials on hand for your first lesson. Please feel free to bring in past projects to show off to the beginners to help inspire them, and gives us an idea of your experience level and areas of interest.

Most of your projects will be made in sterling silver which we will supply for you (gold can be used once you have some experience, if you choose). A basic amount of silver will be in stock for initial projects and then as we plan ahead for each project you would like to make, the appropriate materials will be ordered in advance of your next class. The price of silver changes often, and the project weights vary depending on what styles and sizes you choose, but as a guide the materials for the first three projects are likely to cost as follows: Project 1 (handmade silver ring) approx $10 to $15 Project 2 (saw pierced pendant) approx $20 Project 3 (link bracelet) approx $25 to $55

Bring your glasses! If you need glasses for close work, then you should definitely bring them! We supply all the tools (please don't bring any of your own tools, this will prevent mix ups and missing tools.) If you’re here for a day class, feel free to bring your lunch (although the Charleston Hotel make delicious meals). We have a basic kitchen, including a fridge, microwave, kettle, cutlery and plates etc. Tea and coffee is provided. Do not bring sickness to class! Due to the close proximity of working right alongside others (some of whom may have medical reasons to avoid infections) and the chance of getting the teacher sick, it is very important that you do not come to class if you are unwell, particularly in the early stages of a sore throat or cold, when you are highly contagious.

We are too! While most of our training and experience is in jewellery making, we have some knowledge of silversmithing techniques and some excellent resources. You can certainly work on silversmithing projects if that’s an area of interest to you. We would be happy to explore this area together!

As you progress through different projects you may like to work with some gemstones. We have a selection of gemstones for you to purchase and use if you want to include them in your pieces. We can order all sorts of different gemstones, if we don’t have what you are looking for in stock. Gemstones vary widely in price, but some of the semi-precious stones are very inexpensive so there is a gemstone for everyone’s budget.

Please refer to our refund policy for missed classes on our website for more information.

Charleston is in a bushfire risk area. In the event of a bushfire, you are responsible for your own safety. Even if you don’t live in a bushfire area, by entering a bushfire area you should have, and follow, your own bushfire action plan. You can refer to the CFS website for more information. The workshop’s bushfire policy is to cancel classes on catastrophic fire danger days, or if there is a bushfire that threatens the Adelaide Hills. In the event that we decide to cancel a class, you will be notified as soon as is practicable and the class will be rescheduled at another time. As a side note, smoking is not permitted on the property.

We would be happy to answer any questions you have. Contact us on 0457 634 193 or email hiveartisancollective@gmail.com. Thanks, Josh and Georgia

Silver We polish the silver before it is dispatched but it may tarnish over time and with wear. We provide a small silver polishing cloth with all our silver products, which you can use to polish your piece. Rub gently over area in a circular motion until the silver is polished. Repeat as many times as necessary. The silver polishing cloth may appear dirty but is still able to be used as there is a considerable amount of polishing compound on them. Another option for cleaning silver is silver foam, which is available at many jewellery supply stores. We recommend using Town Talk’s silver foam. Titanium Titanium is a tough, lightweight and durable material that is a dull grey colour in its natural state. It is hypoallergenic, meaning it does not react with sensitive skin. Titanium forms a hard coating of coloured oxide when heated or anodised. The oxidisation is a very fine crystallisation on the surface of the metal so with time and wear, the colours may fade. Titanium often can’t be worked in the same way as other precious metals, as it cannot be soldered or softened in the usual ways. If dirty, wash gently with warm, soapy water. Avoid polishing and scratching against other hard surfaces, as this will wear down the oxide layer. Brass and Copper We coat the brass and copper with renaissance wax before it is dispatched but over time and with wear, the colour will naturally darken and oxidise. This oxidisation occurs when the item is exposed to air and other various chemicals. There is no great reversal method other than to polish and lacquer it again so please keep this in mind when purchasing products with these metals. Silver foam may make a considerable improvement in colour but is not guaranteed. We recommend using Town Talk’s silver foam.

Due to time constraints, we do not offer custom and/or personalised orders. However, we recommend Shannon Cornish Artisan Jewellers in Woodside, SA for custom orders. Josh completed his apprenticeship with Shannon and taught jewellery classes through her shop for 7 years currently. You can contact Shannon Cornish Artisan Jewellers through their website, http://shannoncornish.com.au/

There are approximate dimensions included in the product description in millimetres (mm) or centimetres (cm). Most items will have a picture of the product listing that show the items' size, including either a ruler or female's ear.

We will sell to wholesalers and on consignment. Please email us at hiveartisancollective@gmail.com for further information.

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