JewelryClassDC — Local services in Washington

JewelryClass Dc is truly a standout artists studio housed in idyllic Capitol Hill DC. It is a school run by master goldsmith Daniel Valencia. He offers workshops, classes of all levels, private sessions and these amazingly unique wedding band workshops where engaged couples can design and then forge their own meaningful masterpieces (under Daniel's watchful eye). I have witnessed many of these workshops and can honestly say there is no better way to enter into the contract of marriage than by designing your own ring.

I started taking beginning workshops in August of 2019. I came with zero experience, only excitement. I quickly fell in love with the silversmithing process and signed up for the professional level extended program which is around 10 months. During that time, Daniel and his staff of exceptional teachers are there to support and guide you. You have your own bench and supplies for the contracted time (extended only) and can attend any workshop and class that is offered. If you come in for classes or workshops, you are also given tools and a bench to work with - all materials are supplied. Extended students even get to go to NYC with Dan and Laura (another wonderful Goldsmith) and connect with stone dealers in the Jewelry district. Phenomenal experience.

The plus of being a student is you can come in and pay for extra bench time to work on your craft. The hours of the studio are pretty great - it's almost always open. It's an unbelievable opportunity to learn a trade in the most professional way. In fact, the studio itself is exceptional. Daniel has stocked the space with every tool you could ever want or need and he allows students to use them once they are taught the proper way. Nobody has to share their personal tools. He even has a computer screen over his teaching bench so you could watch his hands during demonstrations. When you enter the space, you are met by the coolest graffiti hallway of sayings by past and present students. The vibe is exactly what you want from a professional artists studio in the heart of a blooming community.

I was able to even start my own small business selling jewelry since January. Daniel and crew have been incredible in helping me find my path and support my journey. I couldn't recommend this school or Daniel Valencia enough. Daniel is super fun and masterful. Whether you want to try a Metals 1 class to just try it or learn a trade from the very best - I suggest you come to...

Hands down, this is the best place to go if you want to learn how to make jewelry as a hobbyist or if you would like to turn it into a successful career. I walked into Dan's studio two years ago, thinking I was going to take one Metals I class and move on with my personal endeavors. I fell in love with the place, signed up for Metals II, and then for the extended study/ semi private study program. I was assigned to my own workbench, that was well equipped with more than what an average student would typically have (thus expanding my knowledge even more). I also received plenty of personal instruction from Dan, as well as Laura (his amazing assistant), and exchanged creative ideas/ concepts with the other students as well. The extended study program is also great, because Dan invites the students to New York City to personally meet some of the oldest and top diamond/gemstone sellers, cutters and manufacturers in the industry. This was an invaluable experience, because I established relationships with other professionals in the industry.

I started out not knowing anything about creating jewelry from metal. Now I know how to create beautiful pieces of my own, and I have gained the skills and confidence to explore a career path in the jewelry industry. I have learned the correct techniques and processes of jewelry fabrication that will always ensure my final project to be nothing less than professional quality. There are also various workshops throughout the year that cover topics from flush setting, soldering, jewelry repair and etching just to list a few.

Oh and let's not forget the set up and decor of the studio! Not only is Dan's studio well equipped with the most up to date machinery and tools, he also has an an array of vintage anvils and metalsmithing tools for display and some for usage. There is every tool available to get whatever task you need completed. He also uses his space to host gem sales throughout the year as well. Dan's sense of his creativity, wit and humor makes your learning experience even more enjoyable. I no longer reside in D.C., but whenever I visit, Jewelry Class D.C.'s studio is one of my...

I personally recommend Jewelryclassdc if you are interested in fabricating jewelry in precious metals, regardless if you are a beginner wanting to learn the creative skill or a practitioner wanting to hone your skill – you will agree with me that there is always something new to learn in jewelry fabrication! Dan Valencia and his assistants are highly experienced and encouraging, key to grow and sustain interest in a skill that requires long hours of practice. I was a beginner in metalsmithing when I started Metal l classes 2 years ago. After only a few classes, I was hooked on creating and making beautiful Sterling Silver pieces with gemstones – yes, all the pieces you create and make in class are in Sterling Silver!

I took a few Metal ll classes and intensive workshops in soldering, flush setting and etching, before I enrolled for the Extended Study program that allows more days, flexible hours and private instructions at the studio. I was assigned a fully-equipped individual work bench and have access to a wide array of tools available at the studio. Jewelryclassdc is very well equipped with tools, acquired for professional and personal reasons, ranging from the latest laser welding machine to century-old antique anvils, hammers and punches. It is such a joy using the mix of high-tech and traditional tools to create the beautiful jewelry pieces.

During my extended study program, I worked with Dan to design and create my own jewelry collection. I must say I have improved immensely from where I started, from having only vague ideas of what I wanted to create to realizing them into gorgeous pieces. Dan also organizes field trips to New York City once a semester for all extended study students to meet with the jewelry industry players such as gems/diamonds manufacturers and dealers – a valuable engagement especially for those wanting to build a viable jewelry...