Required Training

In order to become a member you will need to take our gem cutting class.

You will learn how to select the right kind of slab for your project. Using a trim saw, you will remove excess material and prepare the stone for grinding. We will show you how to shape your stone and use different wheels and methods to produce a smooth finish. Lastly, you will set your finished cabochon in a pendant setting and take it home.

Learning how to use our equipment properly will prepare you for membership in the club.

You can also take the class even if you don't intend to become a member.

It is offered through the Prince Georges County ParksDirect system .

"These cabochons were made in our class by people with no prior experience"

Preparing for the Class

To prepare for the class, we ask that you watch the video. It explains the process you will be using in this class to make your cabochon. You will be using a Genie machine, or one similar, like the one in the video.

if you want to get the most out of our class, you should review this video several times so that nothing we discuss or demonstrate will be a surprise. Pay close attention to how he moves his hands. At about 18 minutes into the video he discusses "scratches and flat spots". Pay close attention to what he says. We will discuss this a lot in our class. If you can master this, you will be able to cut perfect stones.

What to Bring
- Wear old clothes. No scarfs or anything that can be caught in the machinery.
- If you do not wear glasses, you may want to bring safety glasses.
- You may want to bring a plastic apron. You may get water or oil on your clothes.
- A pencil and paper may be handy to take notes.
- This is an all day class. You may want to bring a lunch or snack and something to drink.

Cost
If you live in Prince Georges County or Montgomery County the cost for the class is $30.

Otherwise, the cost is $39