This photo shows the NI Silver Workshop with Ruth leaning over to explain a hammering technique to a seated guest.  Steve looks on with a saw in his hand.

Jewellery Making Experiences

Become part of the history, landscape and crafting heritage of Northern Ireland as you join family or friends to forge memories together in precious metal, amongst the majestic Holywood hills. Relax and enjoy the best of everything that this wonderful place has to offer by joining loved ones to create your own piece of jewellery using ancient traditional skills, before enjoying amazing homely hospitality and refreshments in a beautiful setting.

With no experience necessary, Goldsmith Ruth, a member of the National Association of Jewellers, will guide you on your journey and help you with your design as you craft your own unique pieces together in your personalised workshop experience - take a look at our options and the dates available below.

If you want to buy an experience for someone else and don't know what date they will want, then our Gift Vouchers are great for presents.

These gift vouchers will be an electronic code but please let us know if you want an old-fashioned paper certificate to present to them and we will post one to you or the recipients, just let us know during the 'checkout'.

What do I need to bring?

Only a camera or phone to help capture your memories and laughter of your quality time with Ruth, your family and friends. All materials, machinery, tools and refreshments are included.

How long will it take?

Our Jewellery Making Experiences last between 3.5 and 4.5 hours depending on which package you choose. The time will fly by and we are relaxed about the timings, so let us know if you have other plans we need to work around.

Do I need any experience?

No experience is required as Ruth will explain everything and should you want her to will even do some of the bits if you would rather not do. Ruth has a natural talent of putting people at ease and any thoughts of 'I'm not very creative' will quickly disappear as you relax and enjoy the 'Craic' as the laughter levels increase in our workshop.

Where is NI Silver?

We are located in the beautiful Holywood Hills, County Down, BT18. We will send you our full address once your booking has been confirmed. We are less than 10 minutes from Belfast if the traffic is behaving itself.

What can I make?

You can make textured rings, bangles, pendants or earrings. These experiences have been designed for complete beginners. Ruth will take the time to explain the different making processes before you safely get involved. These experiences have been designed to fit in the 3-4 hours, so unfortunately we do not have time to cover more advanced skills such as stone setting. If you want to use gold or other precious metals please discuss this with Ruth before your experience. (ruth@nisilver.com)

Can I bring my own design?

Of course you can, all we would ask is that you discuss your ideas with Ruth before your experience. This will allow Ruth and you to refine any design ideas, to confirm what is possible within the timescales and also ensure that Ruth has the right materials for you to work with.

Optional Extras

Chains are not included with pendants and can be bought separately - sizes 16-20 inch sterling silver snake chains in stock. We also have our own gift shop, just in case you need some other gifts :))

  • The whole experience was amazing from start to finish. Ruth was so friendly and accommodating making us feel as if we were her lifelong friends. We loved making our rings (with lots of Ruth’s help of course) and we felt so proud of ourselves. Ruth and Steve welcomed us into their beautiful home and garden and provided us with a delicious array of food and drinks in their outdoor igloo. Overall it was a relaxing, creative and bonding experience which we would highly recommend.

    Kerry

  • My husband and I were gifted a workshop experience and we weren't too sure what to expect, but Ruth at NI Silver made the morning an absolute pleasure. She was knowledgeable and funny, chatting away whilst showing us the steps we needed to do, and then stepping back to let us have a good go! We all had a great time and I would 100% recommend the workshop experience to anyone - I'll definitely be back some time for another go!

    Megan C

  • If you're looking for that unique treat or experience,then a jewellery making workshop with Ruth at NI Silver is a must! I had such a fun time not only watching Ruth demonstrate her skill, but then making my own bespoke silver ring and of course enjoying Steve's great hospitality. What a perfect day!  Thank you.

    Anne F