This intensive five-day course provides a comprehensive introduction to gemstone setting using a microscope and GRS power-assisted gravers.
By the end of the week, participants will work towards completing a pavé or castelle-set band, gaining a strong foundation in precision micro-setting techniques. Under the expert guidance of an industry professional with over 20 years of experience in stone setting and goldsmithing, you will receive detailed, hands-on instruction at every stage of the process. Delivered within the state-of-the-art DCCI Academy Jewellery & Goldsmithing, this course offers valuable insight into professional micro-setting practices — including the benefits, tools, and high levels of accuracy required for these specialised styles of setting.
This course is open to both DCCI members and members of the public.
Course Overview
- Date: June 29th – July 3rd 2026
- Duration: Five days; 9.30am – 4.30pm
- Last day to apply: 15th June 2026
- Venue: DCCIA School of Jewellery, Sessions House, Thomastown, Co Kilkenny, R95 X9Y6
- Number of participants: 6
- Fee: €1625 (includes graver, beading tool and sundries to take away)
Why Attend
- Train in a state-of-the-art goldsmithing academy equipped with industry-standard optical microscopes, GRS tools, and professional-grade materials.
- Enhance the quality, precision, and value of your jewellery work through expert instruction and hands-on practice.
- Learn efficient, time-saving, and cost-effective techniques to improve productivity in your workshop.
- Minimise physical strain on the eyes and body by using the correct equipment and learning ergonomic working methods.
- Begin to advance your stone-setting skills to a professional micro-setting standard.
- Develop the capability to complete stone-setting work in-house, increasing creative control and profitability.
- Reduction in gemstone breakages and damage.
Learning Outcomes
- The aim of this course is to develop the learner’s practical competence and underpinning knowledge in the principles and techniques of micro optical gemstone setting.
Upon completion, learners will be able to:
- Demonstrate the effective use of an optical microscope for precision gemstone setting.
- Operate GRS setting systems and associated equipment safely and efficiently.
- Sharpen and polish gravers using appropriate methods for different applications.
- Accurately mark out and prepare metal surfaces for drilling and stone placement.
Who Should Attend
- Professional goldsmiths, jewellers and industry bench-workers.
Student Testimonials
“Very informative, David was a fantastic teacher, very well presented, he is very patient, encouraging and gave us loads of top tips. Covered tool making which was so useful also” – Jolene Spencer
“David was a great teacher and explained everything extremely well. I learned so much, not just about castelle and pavé, but so much more. I loved trying all new equipment I’ve never tried before.” – Otilia Mahu
“A wonderful teacher. Breaks down the processes very thoroughly and in an easily understandable manner” – Lorcan Reilly
“Meets us at our level and allows us to progress in a relaxed, supportive and enjoyable environment” – Enda Moran
“Very understanding of our individual needs, found a way around working the processes to suit my capabilities” – Jessica Toothill
Day 1
Morning
Welcome and tour of the Sessions House facilities and workshops
Health and safety briefing
Overview of the five-day course and daily learning objectives
Demonstration 1: Setting bench and microscope setup
Correct sitting position and ergonomics
Use of GRS Graversmith and 901 quick-change handpiece
Micro-setting ball and attachments
Micromotor operation
Microscope setup, calibration, and adjustment
Afternoon
Demonstration 2: Hand tools and graver preparation
Identification and maintenance of gravers
Grinding and polishing techniques
Measuring tools: calipers and dividers
Burrs: carbide vs. steel
Day 2
Demonstration 1: Layout of gemstones and drilling techniques
Divider preparation
Centering and spacing
Drill bit sharpening and depth control
Demonstration 2: Burring and initial line cutting
Correct hand positioning and use of the ball vice
Cutting techniques and troubleshooting with the GRS Graversmith
Practical session on layout and drilling exercises
Day 3
Demonstration: Layout, drilling, and burring for pavé-setting a band with CZs
Band and gemstone spacing
Drilling depths and lubrication
Micromotor handling and drill maintenance
Bead size, proportion, and uniformity considerations
Day 4
Demonstration: Cutting threads and seating gemstones
Achieving consistent heights and secure fits
Correct thread depth and style considerations
Review of graver selection, preparation, and technique
Day 5
Demonstration: Bead splitting, clean-up, and refining internal corners
Preparation of splitters and beading tools
Know Your Instructor
David Wilson is a Kilkenny-based goldsmith with over 20 years of experience working at the highest level of his craft. A specialist in fine jewellery, he possesses extensive expertise in working with platinum, gold, and gemstones.
Throughout his career, David has worked with leading goldsmiths in Edinburgh, Canada, and Ireland. He spent eight years training under renowned gold and silversmith Rudolf Heltzel before establishing his own goldsmithing and micro-setting studio in Kilkenny.
David’s practice focuses on diamond microscopic setting, where his precision, attention to detail, and commitment to exceptional quality are widely recognised. Alongside his professional work, he is an accomplished instructor, teaching micro-setting to students at the DCCI Jewellery and Goldsmithing Centre of Excellence.
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