This foundation metal techniques course introduces students to the basic processes that goldsmiths have been using for centuries around the world. Beginning with an introduction to the tools and equipment of the jewellery workshop, and with an emphasis on safety, students are shown proper technique and ergonomics of working at the jeweller’s bench. Through practice and repetition of skills such as sawing, piercing, drilling, filing, melting, rolling, forging, soldering, forming, finishing, and basic stone setting, they begin to internalize the processes of making jewellery and gain confidence when working with tools and materials. They then move on to synthesizing these skills into more complex creative projects. Basic metallurgy and mathematical formulae associated with jewellery-making are also covered.
Prerequisites
Course type
This course is offered as part of a VCC program and cannot be taken individually.
International students: Eligibility is determined at the program level. Visit the program page for international student requirements and application information.
- Safety in the jewellery workshop
- Basic metallurgy
- Common jewellery metals
- Basic mathematical formulae used in goldsmithing
- Filing
- Piercing
- Drilling
- Rivets and cold connections
- Soldering
- Melting metals
- Making sheet and wire
- Chain making
- Doming and basic forming
- Ergonomics of the jewellery workbench
- Flex shaft
- Polishing motor
- Rolling mill
- Drawplates
- Basic bezels
Course schedules
Select your program to see the available course schedules.
| CRN# | Duration | Delivery | Location | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 70653 |
September 1, 2026 to December 11, 2026 |
Lab | VCC Downtown Campus | See full schedule |
Online courses listed without scheduled meeting times can be completed on your own schedule. All self-paced courses have on-campus tests. Off-site certified invigilation centres may be used at the student's expense.
How to take this course
This course is offered as part of a VCC program only.
Contact us
If you have any questions, please email at [email protected].
† This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.