Accessories are key to an ideal outfit. Instead of looking for gems on the shelves of local stores, create your very own one-of-a-kind pieces to stand out among the crowd. Find inspiration for where to start below.
Rock-n-Wrap Bead Ring
Saturday, March 14, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
In need of a new ring? Skip the store this month and instead try your hand at ring making with Lisa Hampton-Qualls of Woodbridge. In this three-hour course, you’ll follow step-by-step instruction by Hampton-Qualls, inevitably walking away with a metal-based ring decorated by an oval gemstone and textured coiling. Participants will be able to choose from a variety of multicolored gemstones, as well as gold or silver bands. // Star’s Beads: 139-A Church St. NW, Vienna; $40
Jewelry Pop-Up Event with Diana Papazian from Papazian Jewelry
Saturday, March 14, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Arlington-based jeweler Diana Papazian is hosting a meet-and-greet affair at Gift & Gather this month that you won’t want to miss. Papazian uses enameling—the process by which glass is fused to metal at high heat—to create intricately detailed necklaces, earrings and rings. On Saturday, March 14, Papazian will discuss her technique, answer questions and also sell several of her pieces to shoppers and attendees alike. // Gift & Gather: 307 Mill St., Occoquan; free
Wrapping with Lisa – Art Deco Crescent Moon Phase Necklace
Saturday, March 14, 2-5 p.m.
Those with intermediate-level skills are invited to create a celestial-inspired, art-deco necklace, made entirely of metal wiring and moonstone glass beads at Star’s Beads. In this afternoon workshop, all participants will improve their jewelry-making skills by using heavy gauge wire to create a crescent moon-shaped pendant. If you’ve never participated in a jewelry making class, yet still want to give it a try, the choice is yours. Crescent moons do symbolize new beginnings, after all. // Star’s Beads: 139-A Church St. NW, Vienna; $40
Soldering Basics with Charles – Metalworking
Sunday, March 15, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Mold and meld sterling silver in this one-of-a-kind metalworking course led by local jeweler Charles Agel. Based in Falls Church, Agel has been crafting colorful metal rings, earrings and bracelets for a few years now, and hosts regular workshops at businesses throughout the region. This month, Agel will teach participants basic soldering techniques, including use of the torch and flux, to create rings, earrings or a bracelet from sterling silver wire. // Star’s Beads: 139-A Church St. NW, Vienna; $90
Jewelry Making Workshop / Bridal Earrings
Sunday, March 15, 4-6:30 p.m.
Believe it or not, wedding season is fast approaching. Whether you’re the bride to be, in the wedding party or simply a loyal guest, statement earrings are an essential aspect of the entire ensemble for a summer wedding. This month, plan ahead by creating your very own wedding-worthy earrings using Baroque-style freshwater pearls, Swarovski crystals or semi-precious gems. You can even turn this opportunity into a bridal party bonding event, creating matching pieces for your upcoming day. // Praha Beads and Jewelry: 215 S. Union St., Suite 6, Alexandria; $130
Couples Ring Making Class
Saturday, March 21, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
This month, you and your partner have the chance to embrace the nontraditional and create your very own matching rings. In this three-hour course, the two of you will bond while making textured or hammered rings of silver, as well as sipping wine or beer. Plus, if you want to turn it into a group affair, register with two other couples, as the maximum number of participants for this course is six. // Wear Ever Jewelry Studio School: 1112 King St., First Floor, Alexandria; $195
Jewelry Making Workshop – Design Basics
Sunday, March 22, 4-6 p.m.
Calling all new jewelers: Learn the basics of jewelry making with Tracey Navratil of Praha Beads and Jewelry. All participants will utilize copper wire, gemstones and other components to craft two pairs of earrings and a bracelet, unique to the individual. As Navratil’s shop contains thousands of different beads from across the globe, you’re sure to find a gemstone that appeals to your style. // Praha Beads and Jewelry: 215 S. Union St., Suite 6, Alexandria; $60
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