Richard Paille

I've been working in jewelry full time for over 40 years. In 1971 I began studies with the G.I.A. (Gemological Institute of America) to become a Gemologist. During that time I was also continuing my academic education in economics while studying jewelry making. Basically I'm a self taught jeweler... a slower way to learn as you don't benefit from the experience of other people. 

Today I work mainly in 18K and platinum although like most people I started with silver gradually moving to 14K. Did you know gold is often easier to work with than silver? Due to current metal prices silver is the metal to start with... although, if one hopes to pursue jewelry making as a business; incorporating gold, at some point, will open many doorways in the future.

During my career I've built and operated two retail jewelry stores and several manufacturing studios. I've mined opal in Australia plus filmed jewelry related documentaries. ( see my website ) I've also been involved in Black Pearl farming in the South Pacific (details on my website). Over the years I've exhibited my work in several hundred Art/Craft events across the US and sold to jewelry stores & galleries around the country. Currently most of my work is produced for private clients from commissions although I still exhibit in a few events each year. My focus now is sharing my career experience by teaching jewelry making and consulting to jewelry makers.

I believe people who began jewelry making will benefit from help in the areas noted below.          (this applies to people with hobby interests and to people with the goal of producing work for sale)

A. Knowing the ‘Techniques to Learn’ 1st, 2nd, 3rd, etc., & why.

B. Equipment & ‘Tool Purchases’ based on ones ‘Stage of Learning’, interests & budget. Many schools say students need this or that without tailoring needs to each person.

C. Knowing the ‘Correct Way’ to set up a small jewelry making area or “bench” re: Safety, Efficiency & Expansion Potential.

D. Learning the ‘Best Places’ to purchase tools, equipment, precious metals, findings, gems & supplies. 

(see the ‘Tool & Gem Sources’ page... good sources are very important)
E. Knowing what to make that Sells...’How To Price Work’ & ‘Where To Sell’ if selling is a goal.

F. Gaining an understanding of the ‘Business Side’ of producing jewelry if one wants to sell their work.  

“There are just a few techniques to learn to make basic jewelry but many ‘Tricks-of-the-Trade’ (not available from many jewelry schools) to acquire if your goal is more advanced jewelry making. In class I try to pass along tips I’ve acquired over my career to help people as they learn the “Art of Jewelry Making.” R.P.

(Be sure to visit my teaching site: [learn 2 make jewelry] to view all classes, Monthly Specials, supplier sources, etc.)