Here's an idea of the classes we're planning to offer. Dates, times and more details to follow; subject to change.
Dates and times TBA - we're looking to start in September 2026.
Pop by an OGMS Monthly Meeting to keep in touch and join!
Hands-On Learning Is Irreplaceable.
There is no substitute for learning a tactile craft in the company of people who know it well and as excited about it as you are.
At OGMS, you learn directly at the bench guided by experienced members in a welcoming, collaborative environment in an informal and generous way that knowledge has always passed literally, from one set of hands to yours.
Our workshop is fully equipped with tools to transform rough rock into something beautiful, with knowledgeable people ready to help you every step of the way. Class size is limited to keep the quality of instruction high.
The Durley Workshop is open to active members during scheduled hours. Beginners are welcome—orientation, supervision, and a signed waiver are required. Childcare is not available and as a working shop with potentially dangerous tools and equipment to children, only the paid participant will be admitted to the class.
We require taking the classes in order below, because skills layer up as you gain experience and as tools are introduced and dexterity is gained.
Welcome to the Durley Workshop! Photo credit: Refugio Lira
Class size limited to 8 people to maintain safety and quality instruction while keeping it a remarkable bargain.
Beginning Lapidary Art: Turn an ordinary rock into a gemstone you can call your own. This 8-week course meets consecutive Mondays or Thursdays (2 hours) per week covers the history of the craft, equipment basics, and essential safety gear, then puts tools in your hands.
You'll shape three classic cuts: Round, Oval, and Square.
Required before advancing to the next level. Equipment, technique, and safety covered, start your creative journey here!
Dates and times TBA - we're looking to start in September 2026.
Sessions: 8 weeks
Expert instruction and studio access:
$160.00 Non-members
$135.00 Members*
$ 15.00 Maintenance Fee
Materials: Your first project materials are provided; extra materials as desired
Intermediate Lapidary Art: Ready to level up? This 8-week course meets consecutive Mondays or Thursdays (2 hours) per week pushes your skills further with three striking new cuts:
Teardrop, Cat-Eye Ellipse, and The Heart. Equipment and safety protocols refreshed; creativity unlocked.
Required before advancing to the next level. Equipment, technique, and safety covered, you're building your skills!
Dates and times TBA - we're looking to start in September 2026.
Sessions: 8 weeks
Expert instruction and studio access:
$160.00 Non-members
$135.00 Members*
$ 15.00 Maintenance Fee
Materials may vary by market pricing
Advanced Lapidary Art: This is where craft becomes next-level art. Challenging in the good way. This 8-week course meets consecutive Mondays or Thursdays (2 hours) per week.
Choose one of four impressive, detail-driven projects to master over 8 weeks (2 hours/week):
Opal Triplet Cabochon, Agate Cameo, Gemstone Perfume Bottle, or Dimensional Gemstone Carving.
Equipment, technique, and safety covered, the rest is up to your imagination!
Dates and times TBA - we're looking to start in September 2026.
Sessions: 8 weeks
Expert instruction and studio access:
$160.00 Non-members
$135.00 Members*
$ 15.00 Maintenance Fee
Materials: Provided with the class
Opals available at market price
*Members, defined as "in Good Standing" must be members of the club, up to date with
membership fees and participate by going to meetings and events.
Members save 15% on classes!
Don't forget: Childcare is not available. Be sure to arrange childcare and plan for school in-service days or holidays before registering for class.
Dates and times TBA - we're looking to start in September 2026.
Discover the art of metal/silver smithing in a supportive, hands-on environment designed for absolute beginners. Learn this challenging and rewarding craft from an experienced instructor through small class sizes, personalized guidance, and a comfortable pace.
Students will learn essential jewelry-making techniques including torch soldering, sawing, fitting, and metal fabrication while creating a bezel-set cabochon pendant project. This course builds a strong foundation in fine metalworking and jewelry design.
No prior experience or equipment is required.
Students must commit to attending the first four weeks without absence, as the most critical foundational techniques are taught during this period and make-up classes are not available.
A materials kit is required and must be purchased on the first day of class. Kit pricing varies based on current metal market rates.
Sessions: 8 weeks - Consecutive Mondays or Thursdays
Expert instruction and studio access:
$160.00 Non-members
$135.00 Members*
Materials:
Copper Kit: $20.00* depending on market price
Silver Kit: $75.00* depending on market price
Dates and times TBA - we're looking to start in September 2026.
Take your Metal/Silver Smithing skills to the next level with advanced, project-based instruction designed for experienced students ready for greater creative and technical challenges.
Each class session focuses on a specialized technique that strengthens tool handling, expands fabrication knowledge, and deepens understanding of the metalsmithing craft. Techniques may include lamination, forming, repoussé, fusing, filigree, advanced soldering methods, complex fabrication, specialty stone setting, and more.
Led by experienced instructors, these classes are ideal for students looking to refine their craftsmanship and explore advanced artistic techniques in jewelry making.
Sessions: 8 weeks - Consecutive Mondays or Thursdays
Expert instruction and studio access:
$160.00 Non-members
$135.00 Members*
Materials:
Copper Kit: $20.00* depending on market price
Silver Kit: $75.00* depending on market price
Dates and times TBA - we're looking to start in September 2026.
Go beyond surface beauty and explore the fascinating science and artistry hidden within gems and minerals. This advanced lapidary course is designed for dedicated rockhounds eager to deepen their understanding of what makes certain stones rare, valuable, and desirable.
Students will learn to identify mineral species, distinguish between similar-looking materials, test Mohs hardness, use field guides and identification resources, and better understand the unique characteristics of gem materials.
Each student will receive samples of the featured materials discussed during class. Every sample will be shaped into a cabochon using techniques and best practices specific to each stone type.
Build both technical lapidary skills and a deeper appreciation for the remarkable world of gems and minerals.
Sessions: 8 weeks
Expert instruction and studio access:
$160.00 Non-members
$135.00 Members*
$ 15.00 Maintenance Fee
Materials:
Opals available at market price
Dates and times TBA - we're looking to start in September 2026.
Members only Open Studio Sundays $10.00, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM limited to 8 people, you must have a reservation to attend.
Access is granted to members after a skills assessment; no instruction is offered during this time.
Dates and times TBA - we're looking to start in September 2026.
We can't wait to return to the Durley Workshop!
I'M IN, NOW WHAT?
Purchase your class here, but not until we get the dates and times announced.
Pay with Zeffy using the QR code below, or link. Bring your screenshot to class to confirm enrollment.
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/donate-to-make-a-difference-141
Here's a class calculator, screenshot for receipt, you may need to adjust later.
Use this QR code to purchase your class and materials after the class dates and times are announced. Bring screenshot to class to confirm enrollment.
OGMS member Gail Sandford shaping a stone