Richard Paille

I've been making & selling jewelry full time for over 39 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 studying jewelry making plus continuing my studies in economics. Basically I'm a self taught jeweler... a slower way to learn as you don't benefit from other peoples knowledge & experience.

Today I work mainly in 18K and platinum although like most people I started with silver then gradually moved up to 14K. Did you know gold is often easier to work with than silver? Due to current precious metal prices silver is more realistic to start with; but if your hope is to realize the most income from your jewelry getting into gold at some point will open many doors in your future.

During my career I've built and operated 2 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 / photos on my website). Over the past 39 years I've exhibited my jewelry 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 shows each year.

In my experience many people who began making jewelry would benefit from help in these important areas:

A. "Equipment & Tool" purchases based on their stage of learning, interests & budget. Too many schools or teachers say students need this or that without tailoring needs to each person.
B. Learning the "Best Places" to purchase tools, equipment, precious metals, findings, gems & supplies. It's Very Important to know good sources! I've developed great sources over many years.
C. Knowing the "Correct Way" to set up a small jewelry making area, bench or studio re: safety, efficiency & expansion potential.
D. Knowing what techniques to learn 1st, 2nd, 3rd, etc., & "Why."
E. Knowing what to make that will sell. How to price work & where to sell it.
F. Gaining an understanding of the "Business Side" of producing jewelry. In truth this last area should be near the top of ones list if they're considering jewelry as a profession or even a serious hobby.

There are many parts to the jewelry industry but at the most basic level they break down into 'Manufacturing & Sales.'

Manufacturing areas include casting, fabrication, CAD/CAM production, gem setting, engraving, tool making, chemical procedures and finishing methods plus "boutique" areas like granulation, repousse', roll printing, reticulation, electroforming and inlay, etc.

Sales areas include retail, wholesale, consignment & memos... all of which are important to understand whether working with galleries, stores or directly with customer-clients. The jewelry field is vast!

There are just a few techniques to learn in order to make basic jewelry but many "tricks-of-the-trade" (not available from books & most jewelry schools) to aquire if your goal is more advanced jewelry making.

Whatever your interest I'd like to share some of what I've learned over the years at the bench, behind the counter working in this industry. Check out my classes... hopefully something will interest you.

I offer private instruction or work with small groups. Contact me to discuss your interests.

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