Spring / Summer 2026 Classes
Saddles and Straps
Over the course of this hands-on virtual workshop, Michael will share two alternative stone-setting methods he’s refined over the past 30 years. You’ll learn how to form metal saddles, precisely drill and seat stones, and carve/polish grooves that use tension straps to lock gemstones in place—no bezels or prongs required.
Carving and Altering Stones at the Bench
Do you have a box of stones, beads or objects you’ve collected over the years but never quite found the right project for? This workshop is designed for jewelers who want to alter or carve stones they already own—without the need for large or expensive equipment.
Students will learn how to reshape, carve, and resurface stones using simple tools at your bench, allowing them to integrate more seamlessly into your designs. This workshop complements other classes Michael has taught, such as Stone on Stone, and is part of an ongoing series focused on expanding creative possibilities.
You’ll be introduced to practical stone-carving techniques that encourage a fresh approach to design, helping you make the most of both stone and metal while opening new creative directions in your work.
Join master lapidarist and internationally renowned metalsmith Michael Boyd for a three-day intensive workshop all about transforming raw chunks of rock into one-of-a-kind cabochons!
In this workshop, students will learn the fundamentals of lapidary as they cut, shape, and polish precious and semi-precious stones into finished cabochons of their own design. This class requires no prior experience, but it is open to all levels—whether you are just starting your maker journey, or if you have experience but want to learn how to cut cabs from the master himself.
Completion of this class will get you ready for the advanced workshop that immediately follows.
Join us in Boston- in person- at the New England Metalsmithing Guild for Introduction to Lapidary
Are you ready to take your lapidary skills to the next level? Then join master lapidarist and internationally renowned metalsmith Michael Boyd for this 5 day advanced workshop!
Learn how the worlds of metalsmithing and lapidary can intersect as you intertwine the two together into a cohesive body of work! In this workshop, students will learn how to purposefully design, cut, and polish stones with the aim of seamlessly integrating them into metalwork.
Join us in Boston- in person at- the New England Metalsmithing Guild for Mineral and Metal
This two-day workshop will incorporate Michael Boyd’s technique for fusing gold patterns onto Argentium silver. Students will use 24 karat gold and Argentium silver to make beautiful patterns that can then be incorporated into the jewelry they create. Michael will show students various ways to manipulate the material to make patterns even more dynamic.
Fused Gold Patterns
This hands-on class is designed for jewelers and artists who want to expand their skills in both lapidary and metalworking by learning how to cut custom shapes and forms that seamlessly integrate with their designs. Through a series of step-by-step demonstrations, you will learn techniques for cutting basic shapes in stone, while exploring creative ways to join stone and metal. Discover innovative methods such as piercing, drilling, riveting, layering, grooving, and laminating in both stone and metal to create unique and cohesive pieces. This class will not only teach you the technical aspects of gemstone cutting but also inspire you to design with your materials in mind, rather than working around them, offering fresh perspectives on combining metal and stone in your art.
Join us in Georgia- in person-at William Holland School of Lapidary Arts
Join Michael Boyd for two sessions of a live virtual workshop on his techniques and methods for setting stones on stones and metal on stone! Students will learn important tips for creating custom fit bezels for all manner of shapes, will see his steps for expertly drilling holes into stones, and will learn to create mountings with tube rivets and bonding agents. Explore ways of adding color, dimension, and texture to your work with stone layering techniques.