Polishing jewellery to a professional standard is a skill that takes time, technique, and the right know-how – and this two-day hands-on workshop is designed to give you just that.
Perfect for jewellery makers and anyone working in a retail environment, this course offers a focused, practical introduction to the art of polishing.
This course is open to both DCCI members and members of the public.
Course Overview
- Date: Saturday 9th & Sunday 10th August 2025
- Duration: Two days; 10am – 5pm with hour for lunch
- Last day to apply: 1st August
- Venue: DCCIA School of Jewellery, Sessions House, Thomastown, Co Kilkenny, R95 X9Y6
- Number of participants: 8
- Fee: €295
Why Attend
- Learn professional polishing techniques using industry tools.
- Hands-on training with your own sterling silver ring to polish and keep.
- Suitable for beginners, makers, and retail staff — no experience needed.
- Gain confidence with different mops, compounds, and safety practices.
- Taught by expert polisher Ronan Lee, with 20+ years of industry experience.
Learning Outcomes
- Each participant will receive a cast sterling silver ring to clean up, polish, and keep. The course begins with a focus on health and safety, including essential precautions and PPE when using polishing motors.
- You’ll be introduced to different mops and compounds, learning when and how to use each to achieve a professional finish. A live demonstration of polishing a silver wedding band will guide you through the process, with time for questions throughout.
- You can also bring an item of jewellery to polish (no chains please) and you’ll receive tailored feedback and guidance throughout.
- Whether you’re new to polishing or want to build confidence with tricky finishing techniques, this supportive workshop will leave you with practical skills – and a beautiful piece of silver jewellery – to show for it.
Who Should Attend
- This workshop is ideal for: Jewellery makers who want to improve their finishing skills and achieve a high-quality polish on their pieces.
- Jewellery students or beginners looking to build a strong foundation in professional polishing techniques.
- Retail jewellery staff who want hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of how polished finishes are achieved.
- Anyone with an interest in jewellery who wants to learn a specialised skill in a supportive, hands-on environment.
- No prior polishing experience is necessary – just a willingness to learn and get a bit messy!
Know Your Instructor
Ronan Lee has been part of the Irish jewellery trade since 2000, with a strong focus on polishing and finishing techniques. His interest in jewellery was sparked early, inspired by his father who ran the jewellery skills course at FÁS in Baldoyle, Dublin.
Ronan began his career through a traditional apprenticeship with manufacturing jewellers, spending over five years developing a deep understanding of craftsmanship and technique. He went on to work with well-known luxury jewellery brands such as Celtic and Heraldic (now Boru Jewellery) and Fadó, before joining Appleby Jewellers in 2007, where he continues to work today.
With over two decades of hands-on experience, Ronan brings a wealth of knowledge to his teaching. His courses focus on the practical skills needed to achieve professional-level polishing, helping students build confidence, precision, and a strong eye for detail.
Upskill and learn with DCCI Academy
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