One-Day Wax + Gemstone Jewellery Workshop Intensive
A focused one-day workshop for people who want an immersive bench experience over Matariki weekend.
This option is more concentrated than the evening series. You’ll spend the day in the studio learning how to carve a ring or pendant in wax and prepare gemstones to be cast in place. What you'll make
Whether you come on your own for a creative reset, or bring someone close to share the bench, you'll design and craft a custom sculptural ring or pendant. You will learn the foundational skills of wax manipulation and stone-setting, with your final piece sent to the foundry to be professionally cast into solid sterling silver or bronze.
Session One 9am - 12 noon: Wax carving design
You'll design and carve your ring or pendant in wax, learning how to shape, refine and develop the form before it is sent for casting.
Lunch Break (12pm - 1pm): Take an hour to wander down to Mt Eden Village to grab some lunch and stretch your legs.
Session Two 1pm - 4pm: Stone placement in wax
You'll learn how to plan and place up to three gemstones (choice of sapphire, ruby or raw diamond) into the wax, ready for the stone to be cast in place.
“Received the rings — they look so beautiful - Amy"
Made during a workshop that combined wax build-up and carving Who this workshop is for
- Absolute beginners — no prior experience needed
- Anyone looking to slow down and focus on a raw craft
- Individuals or pairs (maximum 2 people per class)
- Guests aged 16 years and up
You don't need to book with a friend — solo bookings are very welcome. What's provided
- All specialized wax, tools, and carving materials
- Three beautiful gemstones to set into your piece
- Casting of your final design
- First 7 grams of sterling silver or bronze included
- Coffee, tea, water, and homemade treats during the day Additional costs (transparent pricing)
- Sterling silver or bronze beyond 7g is charged at $10 per gram casting fee GST
- Casting fee is typically $6–8 GST
- Gold can be used and will be quoted at the day's market rate
- Fine sterling silver chain available for $45
- Courier delivery (Urban $11.50 - Rural $17.50)
- International Courier - will need to be quoted - all tariffs and import duties are the responsibility of the attendee.
Typical weights (after casting):
- Ring: approx. 5–12g
- Pendant: approx. 4–8g
Your piece will be weighed at the end of the session so everything is clear and upfront. What to bring
- Comfortable clothing
- Flat, closed-toe shoes
- Glasses if you wear them for close detail
- A camera or phone if you'd like to document your process
There is plenty of street parking nearby.
Session times may vary slightly depending on the flow of the class — the focus is on process, not rushing. Cancellation & transfers
- In the unlikely event the class is cancelled or postponed, you'll be offered a full refund or transfer
- If you can't attend, please get in touch — refunds are not offered, but we're happy to help you transfer your place
- One week's written notice allows full credit transfer to another date
- If you miss this window, you're welcome to gift your place to a friend
To transfer or discuss options, email:
sally.h@herbertandwilks.co.nz Why this workshop is different
- Traditional lost wax process, taught slowly and thoughtfully
- A finished piece made from your own hands, not a kit
- Calm, friendly, real studio environment in Mt Eden