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Multicolor Rhodochrosite Cabochon
Lapidary Arts Faceted Blue Stone
Wire Wrapping

News and Events

Below are the 2 latest posts. Be sure to check the News and Events section for additional posts about workshops, meetings, classes, etc!

Latest News
March 10, 2023Classes / Jewelry Making & Wire Wrapping SIG / UncategorizedThe results from February’s Special Interest Group class prove that you all really know how to rock! Thanks to Susan and Nancy for this class and to Deb for the photo of your work. [...] Read more...
March 10, 2023Classes / Jewelry Making & Wire Wrapping SIGBasic Wire Wrapping Class (2) When: Thursday, March 23, 2023 @ 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm Where: SeaBreeze Recreation Center, Destin Room Instructor: Greg Vollendorf What will be covered: Basic wire wrapping class (2) taught by Greg Vollendorf that will continue to reinforce wire wrapping techniques.   We are trying to build skills in wire wrapping so you can use those stones that you or someone else have cut and shaped.  Practice makes perfect!!! Tools Required Needle nose pliers Round nose pliers Flush Wire cutters Small dowel rod or pencil to make a bail Supplies Required 1 oval gemstone cabochon – approx. 40x30mm (1 ½” x 1”) 20 or 21 gauge dead soft wire – 3 pieces at 15” long each – NOTE: Dead Soft will make it much easier to work with as a beginner (3 pieces) 20 or 21 gauge dead soft wire (square wire preferable) 15″ long (3 pieces) 24 or 26 gauge dead soft wire (half round wire preferable) 4″ long (1 piece) 24 or 26 gauge dead soft wire (half round wire preferable) 6″ long  Additional Information The Club has a couple of loaner sets of tools but having your own set of tools is invaluable. [...] Read more...
March 10, 2023Field TripsThe next field trip for The Villages Gem & Mineral Society is on! Join us as we venture to the Florida Museum of Natural History in Gainesville (click on the link to learn more about the various collections and exhibits you can see) on Wednesday, March 29. Whether you want to check out the Butterfly Rainforest, Spiders Alive, see the Inner Beauty Exhibit, or fossils, or…whew…there is something for everybody! This will be an all day field trip, so bring a picnic lunch, which you can leave in a cooler in your car until the group breaks for lunch. Judy is providing a surprise dessert at the picnic–yum! So if you are planning on attending and enjoying dessert, let her know that you will be there. The group will be leaving from the SeaBreeze Recreation Center parking lot at 9:00am. The ride is about 1-1/2 hours. If you need transportation, please contact Judy Mitchell so she can help coordinate transport. Check out the itinerary here Costs: General admission is free, but Seniors rate for the Butterfly Rainforest Exhibit is $12.50 and for Spiders Alive is $7.50. Also, parking is $4 and if you are not driving, please chip in for gas for your driver. The plan is head back to The Villages about 3:30pm which should get us back to SeaBreeze about 5pm. [...] Read more...
March 8, 2023Classes / Jewelry Making & Wire Wrapping SIGChain Maille – Earrings – Variation of Helm Weave When: Thursday, April 27 @ 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm Where: SeaBreeze Recreation Center, Destin Room Instructor: Michael McCauley What will be covered: This wire wrapping / jewelry making SIG class will be a different use of the Helm Weave.  You will make a pair of earrings.  These will be your ‘go to’ earrings!! And guys, if you don’t wear earrings this is still a skill you can learn and make a lovely gift for the ladies in your life! Tools Required Bent Nose pliers Flat Nose and/or Needle Nose pliers bead mat Wire Cutters Supplies Required NOTE:  It is very important that if you are using your own wire and rings, they must conform to the gauges shown in this supply list. 20 Gauge Silver 3.2 mm Jump Rings 20 Gauge Silver 5mm Jump Rings 20 Gauge Round Half Hard Wire 2 – 5mm Crystal bicones beads Kits to be Provided and Cost:   There will be sterling silver kits available for a pair of earrings at a cost of $7.50.  Additional Information As always, it is important to be at the class on time. [...] Read more...
February 27, 2023Business Meetings / Classes / Jewelry Making & Wire Wrapping SIG / UncategorizedThe first Thursday of the month is a busy time for all members of The Villages Gem and Mineral Society with something for each and every person. See you there! Jewelry Making Special Interest Group 6-7:30pm Our first SIG class was held on Feb 23 and it will be on Free Form Wire Wrapping, and if you were unable to “finish up” the project, but Nancy and Susan will be there on the Mar 2nd if anyone wants to complete their project! The SIG meets for 1-1/2 hours in the Crescent Beach Room to finish up the project, and then participants head over to the Neptune Room for the business meeting. Short Workshop 5-7pm As usual, prior to the business meeting the Neptune Room will be open for us to work on our stones and projects for 2 hours. 5:30-7pm New members session in the Crescent Beach Room This is a Welcoming session and registration for our newest members. 7:30-8:50pm Business Meeting Please download a copy of the minutes of the February Meeting and the agenda for Thursday’s meeting. BTW: If you want to see past minutes or an agenda from any meeting in the last year, you can see them on the business documents page. [...] Read more...
February 6, 2023Announcements / Jewelry Making & Wire Wrapping SIG / Sales and ShowsSunday, Feb. 26, 2023 is the date! The Artisan Show put on by The Villages Gem and Mineral Society is an amazing opportunity to see beautiful works created by our members and other vendors. It is also a great chance to stock up on the supplies you have been looking for for your projects. There will be beads, wire, stones, cabochons, raw slabs–you name it, if it relates to the lapidary arts, you will find it at this event. Please read this article to learn more about this fantastic show. Please spread the word, the Artisan Show is free and open to all Villagers and to the general public! Members who are not selling work at the show can still support this event and there is always a way to help. Be sure to ask how you can help make this the best show ever! [...] Read more...
January 27, 2023Business Meetings / Classes / Jewelry Making & Wire Wrapping SIG / WorkshopsThe first Thursday of the month is a busy time for all members of The Villages Gem and Mineral Society with something for each and every person. See you there! Jewelry Making Special Interest Group 6-7:30pm Our first SIG class will be held on Feb 23 and it will be on Free Form Wire Wrapping, so you won’t be able to “finish up” a project, but Nancy and Susan will be there on the 2nd if anyone wants to start their project! We will meet for 1-1/2 hours in the Crescent Beach Room and clean up and then head over to the craft room for the business meeting. Short Workshop 5-7pm As usual, prior to the business meeting the craft room will be open for us to work on our stones for 2 hours. 5:30-7pm New members session in the Crescent Beach Room This is a Welcoming session and registration for our newest members. 7:30-8:50pm Business Meeting Please download a copy of the minutes of the January Meeting and the agenda for Thursday’s meeting. BTW: If you want to see past minutes or an agenda from any meeting in the last year, you can see them on the business documents page. Raffle & Other Goodies! This month we have an auction for a week’s lapidary arts course–please be sure to read the agenda and the email from Greg for more details. Thanks to Tom for this donation. Last, but not least, we always close out the monthly business meeting with a raffle–and there are always some great goodies so don’t cut out early or you will lose out. [...] Read more...
January 27, 2023Classes / Jewelry Making & Wire Wrapping SIGFree Form Wire Wrapped Stone When: Thursday, Feb. 23, 2023 @ 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm Where: SeaBreeze Recreation Center, Destin Room Instructor: Nancy Buettner What will be covered: Wire Wrapping a Gemstone that is formed and everything is cut to perfection is what we have been working on in the past.  In this class the stones will be irregular.  The stone may be polished but it does not have a flat back.  You will learn to visualize the stone you wish to wrap.  You will use the wire wrapping methods that you used in previous classes but begin to think out of the box.  No two wire wrapped pieces will be the same in this class.  I will provide samples and then we will get downright creative with your stone Tools Required (the club has a few loaner sets of pliers–let us know when you arrive if you will need them) Round Nose Pliers Chain Link Pliers Bent Nose Pliers Wire Cutters Bead Mat Supplies Required At least 1 irregular stone.  Stones will be available for purchase (Cost $3)  Size is not a problem other than feeling it is a size that you will be able to wear…a medium size stone, approx. 1 to 2 inches. Remember:  The definition of a cabochon is a stone that has been polished and has a flat back.  This is NOT a cabochon…it is an irregular shaped stone that may have been tumbled or possibly even shined …but not cut to a standard shape. Wire – 20 to 24 gauge wire  (soft if you have it) Optional  –  4-6 small crystals or beads, 2 or 3 or 4 mm in size.  Coordinate the color with your stone. Additional Information Please bring the correct size of wire.  If it has a lower gauge, it will be almost impossible to work with.  If it is a higher gauge, it is subject to breaking as you do your wraps. The Results are In–and You All Rocked It! [...] Read more...
December 21, 2022Business MeetingsThe Villages Gem and Mineral Society Business Meeting Short Workshop 5-7pm As usual, prior to the business meeting the craft room will be open for us to work on our stones for 2 hours. 5:30-7pm New members session in the Crescent Beach Room This is a Welcoming session and registration for our newest members. 7:30-8:50pm Business Meeting Please download a copy of the minutes of the December Meeting and the agenda for the January meeting. BTW: If you want to see past minutes or an agenda from any meeting in the last year, you can see them on the business documents page. Silent Auction Last, but not least, we will be having a silent auction. BIDS WILL CLOSE AT 8:30pm. However, you do not need to be there at the end to win. If you have the highest bid, we will notify you and you can pay and pick up your item at the next Workshop. Click here to see the catalog of items that will be available for your bids. [...] Read more...
November 27, 2022Business Meetings / Jewelry Making & Wire Wrapping SIGBusiness Meeting This Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022 will be the final business meeting of the year! Christmas Party Dec 8, 2022, 5:30-9:00pm: Deadline to RSVP for the Christmas Party is this Thursday during our meeting. We need to get a headcount for all members, spouses or significant others planning on attending this year’s Christmas Party. Signup sheets for the dish you are bringing (appetizer, main dish or dessert) are on the table at our workshops. For the steal a gift portion of the festivities, please bring a gift related to lapidary, wire wrapping, mineral collecting, etc. Note: you do not have to bring a gift, only those bringing one are eligible to participate in the steal. If you are not able to attend the December meeting but plan on attending the party, please email Barb Helfer at: blhelfer (at) gmail.com Short Workshop 5-7pm As usual, prior to the business meeting the craft room will be open for us to work on our stones for 2 hours. Jewelry Making SIG Class: Christmas Earrings As a reminder, Deb Delvaux will be teaching us how to make some super cute earrings for the holidays. Kits will be available to make angels, snowmen and more! See the Christmas Earrings Class post for all the details. 5:30-7pm New members session in the Crescent Beach Room This is a Welcoming session and registration for our newest members. 7:30-8:50pm Business Meeting Please download a copy of the minutes of the November Meeting and the agenda for this Thursday’s meeting. BTW: If you want to see past minutes or an agenda from any meeting in the last year, you can see them on the business documents page. Raffle Last, but not least, we always close out the monthly business meeting with a raffle–and there are always some great goodies so don’t cut out early or you will lose out. [...] Read more...
November 19, 2022AnnouncementsJust a reminder, this Thursday, Nov. 24, 2022 is Thanksgiving here in the USA. There will be no workshop on that day. But you can work off some of all that turkey and pie on Sunday! [...] Read more...
November 19, 2022Classes / Jewelry Making & Wire Wrapping SIGThis will be the last Jewelry Making SIG class of 2022. Come join us for a fun evening making holiday earrings–great your yourself or gift giving. As an added incentive, if you really need one 😇, Deb will be bringing her new tool, the One Step Looper, in case anyone wants to see how it works and perhaps put it on their holiday wish list.  Christmas Earrings When: Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022 @ 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm Where: SeaBreeze Recreation Center, Destin Room Instructor: Deb Delvaux What will be covered: We will be making Christmas Earrings. This is a fun and easy project that can be completed in the class and ready for you to put them on for Christmas parties before Christmas or give them as a gift.  Kts will be provided for the earrings at a cost of $2.00 each pair.  Once everyone has purchased a kit, the remainder will be available to purchase and make a 2nd or 3rd pair.  And Guys, please come and make earrings for the lady in your life!!!  She will love these. Tools Required Wire Working Tools (The Club has tools you can borrow if you don’t have tools.) Bead Mat  (Sue has some loaners if you don’t have a mat) Magnifiers if you use them Supplies Required The kits are $2 each and include all the additional necessary supplies. ( Once everyone has purchased a kit, the remainder will be available to purchase and make a 2nd or 3rd pair.) Additional Information The angels and snowmen are really easy projects. The wrapped beads in the center need a little more patience. [...] Read more...
November 7, 2022AnnouncementsFlorida’s weather is generally nice and sunny but this time of year it can be unpredictable. There is potentially another hurricane heading our way and severe weather is forecast to be here by Thursday, Nov 10, 2022. For that reason, the Pre-Christmas Sale has been rescheduled to the following Thursday, Nov. 17, 2022. There will NOT be a workshop on the 10th either. [...] Read more...
October 29, 2022Business Meetings / Jewelry Making & Wire Wrapping SIG / WorkshopsBusiness Meeting This Thursday, Nov. 3, 2022 will be our next business meeting as well as our other usual pre-meeting activities and special news for the meeting itself. Be sure to read for all the details including workshop info. Jewelry Making Special Interest Group 6-7:30pm Members who attended the Lotus Bud Weave class last month are encouraged to bring in the projects and finish them up. Or if you have finished your project, bring it in and show us the results. We always like to take photo of the finished and in-process works to post on the website photo album! We will meet for 1-1/2 hours in the Crescent Beach Room and clean up and then head over to the craft room for the business meeting. As a reminder, there is no class in November. Enjoy your Thanksgiving break! Short Workshop 5-7pm As usual, prior to the business meeting the craft room will be open for us to work on our stones for 2 hours. 5:30-7pm New members session in the Crescent Beach Room This is a Welcoming session and registration for our newest members. 7:30-8:50pm Business Meeting Please download a copy of the minutes of the October Meeting and the agenda for Thursday’s meeting. BTW: If you want to see past minutes or an agenda from any meeting in the last year, you can see them on the business documents page. Show and Tell During the last 15 minutes of the Business Meeting we will have a Show and Tell–this is your opportunity to let the rest of the members see what you have been up to. Bring up to 3 of your recent projects to share. Did you face any challenges or have questions you might like help getting resolved? Have you learned something new recently? Do you have something you are particularly happy with how it turned out? Judy Mitchell has offered to photograph your projects and they will be posted on both her and our websites. If you want more info you can see the Show & Tell flier here. Artisan Show Table Drawing Immediately after the November show drawing we will have the drawing for anyone who paid $35 for a table at our February Artisan Show. If you cannot make the meeting we will draw for your table after all those present have drawn theirs. “Chinese Auction” Last, but not least, we will close out this monthly business meeting with a “Chinese Raffle”–and there are always some great goodies so don’t cut out early or you will lose out. [...] Read more...
October 11, 2022Jewelry Making & Wire Wrapping SIGJust a reminder that Oct 27, 2022 is the next Jewelry Making SIG class. This one is to create a Lotus Bud Wrap. This is a simple project. There is only one wrap. Everyone should be able to do this…a larger cabochon is easier to wrap than a small one. Supplies are NOT provided for this class, so please be sure to review the original post with all the details and get your supplies and tools ahead of time. Keep in mind your cabochon should be round, domed, and at least 20 mm. Bigger is okay, and will be easier to work with. Local bead stores don’t have much inventory of the appropriate cabs–but one of the Club members has made some the right size and will have them available at the class for $4-6. Also, you will need to know the diameter of your stone so you can cut your wire to the correct length. Be careful with your wire…bring the right size. What is stated in the supply list will make your piece LOVELY. [...] Read more...
October 4, 2022Announcements / Business Meetings / Classes / Jewelry Making & Wire Wrapping SIG / Membership / Sales and ShowsOctober 2022 Business Meeting Thursday, October 6, 2022 will be the second business meeting of the fall. The meeting will start at 7:30pm and be followed with a Silent Auction. Topics to be discussed are the Pre-Christmas Show being held on November 10, 2022 at the Seabreeze Recreational Center, as well as each committee providing an update on the exciting work being done in their area. Before the meeting there is time to work on some of your projects. The craft room will open at 5pm as usual, so you have 2 hours to work before cleaning up for the meeting. Also, for those who attended the Basics of Bead Embroidery Part I, Susan and Diann will be in the Crescent Beach Room (card room) for Part II to make up for the delay caused by Hurricane Ian. Business Meeting Documents Please download a copy of the minutes from the September Meeting and the agenda for the October Meeting. BTW: If you want to see past minutes or an agenda from any meeting in the last year, you can see them on the business documents page. October Starts 2023 Membership Registration The Membership Renewal Process starts in October. You can find the Membership Registration and Renewal Documents on the business documents page. Please print out and bring exact cash or a check to any Sunday or Thursday Workshop. [...] Read more...
September 28, 2022AnnouncementsTue, Sep 27 at 11:23 PM from our President Greg: NO WORKSHOP THURSDAY, SEPT 29, 2022 Due to hurricane Ian the Seabreeze Rec Center will be closed until Friday.  Right now, it looks like we will have a workshop on Sunday, if anything changes I will email you. Be safe, everyone! [...] Read more...
September 1, 2022Announcements / Sales and ShowsUpdated Nov 8, 2022–Due to Severe Weather TVG&MS’ Annual Pre-Christmas Show & Sale originally scheduled for Thursday Nov 10 has been rescheduled to Thursday evening, Nov 17, 2022 due to severe weather heading our way. Stay safe everyone! (No, members, there will NOT be a workshop that night instead.) What Will You Find at the Sale? Jewelry and cabochons will be available, handmade by our talented club members. Would you rather create your own works of art? Well, this even is for you, as you can buy the gorgeous rocks “in the raw”, slabs and fossils. Be sure to bring your Villages Resident or Guest ID as it is required to attend this show. Bottom line, whether you want to buy raw materials for yourself or an artisan you know, or you are looking for beautiful jewelry for those on your holiday gift giving list–this is the show for you! [...] Read more...
August 30, 2022Business Meetings / Classes / Jewelry Making & Wire Wrapping SIGBusiness Meeting–we’re back! This Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022 will be the first business meeting since we broke for the summer. We hope that everyone had a great summer and we look forward to hearing about your trips, rock finds, and treasures you created whether you were somewhere in The Villages or somewhere ‘up north’. Jewelry Making Special Interest Group 6-7:30pm Members who attended the Wire Loops Connections class on last Thursday are encouraged to bring in the projects and finish them up. Or if you have finished your project, bring it in and show us the results. We also would like to take more photos of your finished and in-process works to post on the website photo album! We will meet for 1-1/2 hours in the Crescent Beach Room and clean up and then head over to the craft room for the business meeting. The Sept SIG class will be a special 2 part Basics of Beading Embroidery Class so start thinking about what cabochon you want to finish this month–or be sure to see Susan on Thursday as she has some suitable cabochons she bought for everyone who won’t have time or inclination to make their own. They will be for sale for about $4-6 each. Short Workshop 5-7pm As usual, prior to the business meeting the craft room will be open for us to work on our stones for 2 hours. 5:30-7pm New members session in the Crescent Beach Room This is a Welcoming session and registration for our newest members. 7:30-8:50pm Business Meeting Please download a copy of the minutes of the May Meeting and the agenda for Thursday’s meeting. BTW: If you want to see past minutes or an agenda from any meeting in the last year, you can see them on the business documents page. Raffle Last, but not least, we always close out the monthly business meeting with a raffle–and there are always some great goodies so don’t cut out early or you will lose out. [...] Read more...
August 28, 2022Announcements / Classes / Jewelry Making & Wire Wrapping SIGSusan, the Wire-Wrapping Jewelry Making SIG (special interest group) leader reports “I just wanted to let you know that we had a nice turnout last night for the Wire Wrapped Loops class by Nancy Buettner.  I think everyone had fun and got very creative!!  And maybe a little loopy too!“ As you can see from the photos, a lot was accomplished during this one night class. And the participants used the techniques taught by Nancy to create a wide variety of items. Fantastic job, everyone! Class participants hard at work creating If you didn’t finish, or want to create some more pieces some of the students are coming this Thursday, September 1 to complete their work. Cabs for Sept Class Available Also this Thursday Susan will have cabochons available to use for the September class, Basic Beaded Embroidery. The cabs will be available for $4-6, which if you have made your own cabs you know is a bargain for a beautiful stone you can make into a fantastic piece. So if you want first dibs on a cab, be sure to swing by and see Susan on Sept 1. [...] Read more...
August 24, 2022Classes / Jewelry Making & Wire Wrapping SIGHopefully everyone had a nice summer break and you are excited to get back to learning new skills with the Wire Wrapping and Jewelry Making SIG (Special Interest Group). The August class is Wire Wrap Bead Connections taught by Nancy Buettner, Thursday August 24 6pm – 8:30pm in the Destin Room. This is a class that can provide you with hours of jewelry making using your imagination to come up with different ways of using the connections. One of the first uses that comes to mind is to make a chain to carry the Wire Wrapped Pendant that you made in Mary McGee’s class in May. Here’s an example to get you inspired– The wire wrapped cabochon is not provided Another way to use this technique is for the beaded bezel stone you created in March with Diann Eilering. Or you can create a necklace to finish your wire wrapped stone from Greg’s class in February. AND you can always just bring some beads and make a beautiful beaded necklace. You get the idea–this is a technique that can be used in so many ways. For a list of the materials and tools that you will need for this class, please refer to the original post b clicking here: https://tvgemandmineralsociety.com/august-wire-wrapping-sig-class/ More Classes to Finish 2022 You can always see what is coming up by looking at the website. Whether you are on the home page or looking at another page, in the right hand column you will see the Jewelry Making SIG class schedule under this heading: On the schedule for September is a 2-part class on the basics of bead embroidery. October we’ll have another wire-wrapping class, this time we’ll learn how to make a lotus bud for a round stone. Then it will be time for a Christmas project–yet to be announced. And speaking of Christmas, all of these classes are great ways to learn how to make jewelry for gifts for the holidays, and all year long. Basic Wire Wrapping Tools Many people don’t have their own wire wrapping tools. While we do have some loaners, we don’t have enough to go around for everyone. There is nothing like having your own set of tools, and if you are going to continue to take classes we encourage you to get your own. And of course, if you want to practice your skills or even learn on your own, you will want to pick up a set. A good basic set should include 5 different types of pliers–each with their own specific uses and a pair of flush cutters. Chainnose pliers, bentnose pliers, flatnose pliers roundnose pliers, nylon-jaw pliers flush cutters [...] Read more...
July 7, 2022Classes / Jewelry Making & Wire Wrapping SIGLotus Bud Wire Wrapped Round Pendant When: Thursday, October 27 @ 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm Where: SeaBreeze Recreation Center, Destin Room Instructor: Deb Delvaux What will be covered: This class will feature a new wire-wrapped technique that Deb found and is going to share with us. The stone can be larger than the previous projects have been–it is often easier to wrap a larger stone. Tools Required round nose plierschain link plierswire cutterbead mat Supplies Required 1 round cabochon, at least 20 mm (3/4 inch) diameter. You can go larger if you like.1 piece 18 or 20 gauge wire, 5x the diameter of the stone, ie 4 inches for a 20mm stone4 pieces 22 or 24 gauge wire, each piece should be 4x the diameter of the stone1 piece 26 gauge wire, for wrapping4-6 small crystals or beads, 2 or 3 or 4 mm in size.  Coordinate the color with your cabochon. Additional Information The more wire wrapping classes we schedule, the better you will become at wire wrapping. Each instructor is different, and you will always take something new away from each class that you can use as you develop your own techniques and skills. [...] Read more...
June 30, 2022Classes / Jewelry Making & Wire Wrapping SIGPhoto 1 Photo 2 with optional beads Basics of Bead Embroidery Note that this is a 2 part class for the Wire Wrapping Jewelry Making SIG (special interest group). Please plan on attending both sessions. Part 2 builds upon what you do in Part 1 and therefore Part 1 is a prerequisite for anyone wishing to attend Part 2. Photo 1 above is an example of a stone without the additional rows of beads. Everyone should be able to finish this on night 1. Photo 2 above shows the optional beads: The 3mm white beads and the next row of 8/0 beads are optional.  We will show you how to put them on at the end of the 1st class if you choose to use them. When: Part 1 -Thursday, September 22 @ 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm PLEASE BE ON TIME. It is always difficult for the instructor if you come in late and try to catch up. Be a little early if you want to pick out beads. When: Part 2 – Thursday, September 29 @ 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm Where: SeaBreeze Recreation Center, Destin Room Instructors: Susan McCauley and Diann Eilering What will be covered: PART 1: The purpose of the class is to expand on the class that Diann did in March and Susan did in 2021 where you bezeled a cabochon.  The focus of this class will be to attach a gemstone to backing material, bezel it and then embellish and back it to make it a beautiful piece of jewelry.  NO, the cabochon you already bezeled will not work!  AND YES, this is easier than either of those classes. PART 2: The second part will consist of backing the piece and attaching a bail.  Criteria for Part 2:  You must have taken Part 1 to do Part 2. You can just go anywhere with the bead embroidery technique. Tools Required Sharp Scissors (preferably with a point)Beading Needle…this is not the same as a sewing needleBeading Thread – Fireline 6#, Wildfire 6# or Nanofil 8# (# = pound)Ruler or straight edgePencil or pen to mark foundation materialBeading Mat (this is a must as beads will be all over the floor if you don’t have one) Battery Operated Task Light (Optional but very helpful) Supplies Required A round or oval cabochon approx. ¾ – 1 inch in diameter – no larger if you want to complete the classwork in class.This can be made, purchased locally or ordered online at Amazon or any reputable supplier.Cabochon should have a FLAT BACKCabochon’s will be available for purchase in class for $4 – $6 (they will be available at the Sept 1 Thursday workshop, so if you want to have first selection, be sure to come then!)11/0 or 10/0 delica beads in 2 colors that highlight the cabochonThese will be provided at no cost by the instructors but they may not be the color you prefer. Delica’s will be provided in a limited number of colors.It is your choice on whether to buy or take a chance11/0 round (rocaille) seed beads in a color that compliments the cabochon. .  If you are at the September 1 class, you can purchase your cabochon so you will know the color.  Others should just bring a neutral color if they are purchasing the cab at the actual class.  A good neutral color is pearl or black.15/0 round (rocaille) seed beadsGold and Silver will be provided.  If you want another color, you need to bring it.OPTIONAL:  8/0 round seed beads or 3mm round beads.  See sample for ideas. Additional Information SUPPLIES PROVIDED BY THE INSTRUCTORS AT NO COST TO YOU PellonStiffener (Lining)BackingDelica Beads will be provided in a limited number of colors.15/0 Round Seed Beads in gold and silver We don’t want you to have to go out and purchase a large quantity of these items when you will only be using a small amount of each item in the class. Once again, please be on time or a little early for this class. Definitely be early if you want to pick out beads available from the instructor! [...] Read more...
June 30, 2022AnnouncementsThere are several events that are resulting in workshop cancellations in July. This Sunday, July 3, 2022, there will not be a workshop. Next Thursday, July 7, there will be no workshop. Thursday, July 21, there will be no workshop. Thursday, July 28 there WILL be a workshop, but no SIG class. [...] Read more...
June 8, 2022ClassesAlthough there will NOT be a workshop on Thursday, June 23, the Wire Wrapping / Jewelry Making Special Interest Group class will still be taking place. Come on and join the fun in the Destin Room from 6-8:30pm. Click below to get all the details. Embellished Wire Ear Cuffs: June 23 Jewelry Making Class [...] Read more...
June 7, 2022Classes / Jewelry Making & Wire Wrapping SIGMark your calendar for the August Wire Wrapping Class that will be taught by Nancy. Pictured are some examples of what you can achieve with these skills. You may want to build upon the pendant you created in May’s intermediate wire wrapping class, or start something entirely new. You are only limited by your imagination, so start dreaming up what you want to create! Wire Wrap Bead Connections When: Thursday, August 24 @ 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm Where: SeaBreeze Recreation Center, Destin Room Instructor: Nancy Buettner What will be covered: Making wire wrap loops and using 6mm jump rings to be used in a variety of ways to connect dangles, necklaces, bracelets, etc. Supplies Required 24 gauge round wire – any color you want to work with4 mm round beads, crystals, firepolish  (anything that is approximately 4mm with a hole through it) Tools Required Pliers: Round Nose, Chain Nose, Flat Nose and Bent NoseWire Cutters Additional Information No kit is provided for this class. If you attended the May Class on Wire Wrapping a Cabochon with Mary McGee, this is the perfect chance to make a wire wrapped rope to hang it on!!!  I use this process to make many of the necklaces and bracelets that I sell.  With such simple supplies you can make something very beautiful.  Great for gifts as they are not really ornate or terribly expensive and they fit anyone’s personality. [...] Read more...
June 1, 2022Announcements / WorkshopsWe will not have access to SeaBreeze Recreation Center craft room so there will be no workshop on Thursday, June 9, 2022. Note: We WILL be having a workshop on Father’s Day, Sunday, June 19. So, whether you are a dad or not, grab your favorite rocks and have a great day! [...] Read more...
May 27, 2022Classes / Jewelry Making & Wire Wrapping SIGOn Thursday, May 26, Mary McGee taught the Intermediate Wire Wrapping Class to 18 intrepid members! Here are the examples that we got to see before the class and use as inspiration throughout the evening. Front Back Front We barely squeaked out of the room before being escorted out by the SeaBreeze staff, but most of the students were able to finish their pieces while also having some great fun and laughter. With one under their belts, you can bet members will be excited to apply the techniques they learned– including twisting square wire, making a bow bail and adding a bead to a piece for interest–to more pieces. And we can’t wait to see those results, too! Thanks to Mary for the excellent job. [...] Read more...
May 27, 2022AnnouncementsJust a reminder that in observance of Memorial Day, there will be no workshop this Sunday, May 29, 2022. Hope to see you on Thursday! [...] Read more...
May 1, 2022Business Meetings / Classes / Jewelry Making & Wire Wrapping SIG / WorkshopsBusiness Meeting This Thursday, May 5, 2022 will be the final business meeting before we break for summer. If you are still in town, please plan to attend. Jewelry Making Special Interest Group 6-7:30pm Members who attended the Chain Maille-Helm Weave class on April 22 are encouraged to bring in the projects and finish them up. Or if you have finished your project, bring it in and show us the results. We also would like to take photo of the finished and in-process works to post on the website photo album! We will meet for 1-1/2 hours in the Crescent Beach Room and clean up and then head over to the craft room for the business meeting. The May SIG class will be Intermediate Wire Wrapping so start thinking about what cabochon you want to finish this month! Short Workshop 5-7pm As usual, prior to the business meeting the craft room will be open for us to work on our stones for 2 hours. 5:30-7pm New members session in the Crescent Beach Room This is a Welcoming session and registration for our newest members. 7:30-8:50pm Business Meeting Please download a copy of the minutes of the April Meeting and the agenda for Thursday’s meeting. BTW: If you want to see past minutes or an agenda from any meeting in the last year, you can see them on the business documents page. Raffle Last, but not least, we always close out the monthly business meeting with a raffle–and there are always some great goodies so don’t cut out early or you will lose out. [...] Read more...
Our workshop hours are currently Thursdays 5:00 – 9:00pm and Sunday 9:00am – noon.

Clean up starts no later than 30 minutes prior to the end of our sessions as we must be out of the room/building on time.

No preregistration for workshops is required at this time.

Please contact the group for more information including current workshop and business meeting schedules.

Workshop and meeting times are subject to change.

The Villages Gem & Mineral Society-Lapidary Artisans is an organization devoted to the collecting and study of minerals, geology, paleontology and the lapidary arts (stone cutting, polishing, faceting and jewelry making).

Members’ areas of expertise include stone cutting, jewelry making, silversmithing, gem faceting, wire wrapping, beading, metal forming, geology, gemology, fossil collecting, carving, creating mosaics, and more!

No experience is required to become a member of The Villages Gem and Mineral Society–just an interest!

New members will be trained in the use of our equipment to shape, cut and polish rocks and minerals as cabochons and faceted pieces and additional techniques, in the lapidary arts.

Our members pay dues that support the purchase and maintenance of equipment dedicated to the lapidary arts. Members teach and encourage each other in the various skills of the lapidary arts.

This website is for the members of The Villages Gem and Mineral Society. Our Mission: To teach new members the lapidary arts, improve on our own skills and to have a good time.

Here members will find educational information, announcements about upcoming events, membership news, etc.

All members must read and abide by TVGMS Safety Standards and be trained in the safe and proper use of each machine before they will be allowed to use the equipment.

  • In order to be a member of this group, you must live in The Villages, Florida
  • Meetings are held at the Sea Breeze Recreation Center craft room
  • Business meetings are the first Thursday of the month at 7:30 pm allowing for 2 hour workshop prior to the business meeting.
  • Workshops are held all other Thursdays 5:00-9:00pm and Sundays 9:00-noon

Wire Wrapping SIG

The Wire Wrapping SIG consists of members who want to focus on various jewelry making techniques, including wire wrapping. This special interest group is open to all members of TVGMS.

Members of this SIG teach classes on a variety of techniques for beginners and those more advanced.

They meet on the 4th Thursday of each month from 6-9pm in the Destin Room for projects and instruction. Members also meet on the 1st Thursday in the Crescent Beach Room (aka the card room) where they can finish projects, socialize and then attend the business meeting.

The Annual TVGMS Artisan Show

Mark you calendars for Sunday, Feb. 26, 2023!

Click here to read more about the 2023 Annual Artisan Show

The annual Artisan Show, hosted in The Villages each February allows members the opportunity to sell some of the items they have created. The event is open to the public and attracts vendors from around the country who also display and sell their wares. Items for sale range from raw materials to finished jewelry. There is something for everyone available at this event, in every price point.

Demonstrations are put on throughout the day.

Field Trips

The group has gone on field trips in the past to places like Rucks Pit, Graves Mountain, Hoggs Mine and the Peace River. We are considering trips back to these places and other places such as museums, mines and beaches.

Field trips will only be scheduled when there is sufficient member interest for the trip. You must arrange your own transportation for a field trip.

Annual Pre-Christmas Sale

UPDATE Nov 8, 2022: Because of severe weather that is forecast to be in our area on Nov 10, the Board has decided to postpone the show one week: this year’s TVG&MS’ Annual Pre-Christmas Show & Sale will now be Nov 17, 2022.

This one-day annual show features work by club members including jewelry, cabochons, fossils and slabs and rocks for you to create your own treasures and gifts.

This event is open exclusively to Villages Residents and Guests (with Villages Guest ID).

Read more about this event by clicking here

 

For More Information

For further information please stop by any of our workshops or meetings or contact one of the TVG&MS officers.