• A comparison showing a purple carved wax ring model next to the finished textured sterling silver ring with a small red gemstone, displayed on a speckled terrazzo stone wedge.
  • A textured purple wax ring model with embedded gemstones, resting on a wooden-handled jeweller's carving tool over a mirrored reflective surface.
  • A close-up of a maker's fingers holding an organic, bubbly-textured purple wax model for a pendant or earring at a jeweller's bench.
  • Working with blue wax wires and hand carving techniques to design a custom wax jewel during an Auckland workshop.
  • Filing a green wax signet ring prototype during a lost wax carving workshop in Auckland.
  • Two participants learning jewellery making at the benches during a lost wax carving workshop in Auckland.
  • Two unique hand-carved sterling silver rings made by students during an Auckland lost wax carving workshop.
  • transferring the design of the pendant onto a wax sheet ready for carving
  • Using a wax build-up technique to drip green wax onto a mandrel during a lost wax jewellery workshop in Auckland.
  • A work in process of a Blue wax teddy bear pendant being held in a hand over a wooden work bench
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HerbertandWilks Jewellery

One-Day Wax + Gemstone Jewellery Workshop Intensive

One-Day Wax + Gemstone Jewellery Workshop Intensive

$595.00 NZD
$595.00 NZD
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Shipping & Returns

Shipping: We offer tracked courier shipping across Aotearoa New Zealand. Orders are typically dispatched within 2-3 business days (unless marked as 'Made to Order'). Free shipping is available on all NZ orders over $195.

Returns: We want you to love your jewellery. We offer a 7-day return period for an exchange or store credit. Please note that for hygiene reasons, earrings cannot be returned unless they are faulty.

Handmade in Mt Eden

Every piece of HerbertandWilks jewellery is hand-sculpted, cast, and finished by Sally in her Mt Eden studio. By choosing handmade, you are supporting local craftsmanship and receiving a piece that carries the subtle, unique marks of the maker's hand—ensuring no two pieces are ever exactly the same.

Jewellery Care Guide

Sterling Silver: Gently polish with a soft jewellery cloth to maintain shine. Silver Care Guide →

Solid Gold (9ct, 14ct, 18ct): Solid gold will not tarnish or peel, but it can gather oils and dust. Soak in warm water with a drop of mild dish soap, then gently scrub with a soft toothbrush to restore its brilliance.

18ct Gold Plate: Avoid water, perfumes, and lotions to preserve the gold layer. Gold Plate Care Guide →

Bronze: Over time, bronze develops a unique vintage patina. Polish to restore brightness or leave to age naturally. Bronze Care Guide →

Gemstones: Clean with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners.
For more detailed tips, visit our Full Care & Sizing FAQ.

An intensive one-day workshop covering wax carving and gemstone setting into wax. 

Mt Eden, Auckland | Saturday, 11th July 2026, 9am - 4pm | Solo or Pair Bookings (Max 2 students)

A focused one-day workshop for people who want an immersive bench experience over Matariki weekend.

This option is more concentrated than the evening series. You’ll spend the day in the studio learning how to carve a ring or pendant in wax and prepare gemstones to be cast in place.

What you'll make

Whether you come on your own for a creative reset, or bring someone close to share the bench, you'll design and craft a custom sculptural ring or pendant. You will learn the foundational skills of wax manipulation and stone-setting, with your final piece sent to the foundry to be professionally cast into solid sterling silver or bronze.

Session One 9am - 12 noon: Wax carving + design
You'll design and carve your ring or pendant in wax, learning how to shape, refine and develop the form before it is sent for casting.

Lunch Break (12pm - 1pm): Take an hour to wander down to Mt Eden Village to grab some lunch and stretch your legs.

Session Two 1pm - 4pm: Stone placement in wax
You'll learn how to plan and place up to three gemstones (choice of sapphire, ruby or raw diamond) into the wax, ready for the stone to be cast in place.

Made during a workshop that combined wax build-up and carving.

“Received the rings — they look so beautiful!! - Amy”

Made during a workshop that combined wax build-up and carving

Who this workshop is for

  • Absolute beginners — no prior experience needed
  • Anyone looking to slow down and focus on a raw craft
  • Individuals or pairs (maximum 2 people per class)
  • Guests aged 16 years and up

You don't need to book with a friend — solo bookings are very welcome.

What's provided

  • All specialized wax, tools, and carving materials
  • Three beautiful gemstones to set into your piece
  • Casting of your final design
  • First 7 grams of sterling silver or bronze included
  • Coffee, tea, water, and homemade treats during the day

Additional costs (transparent pricing)

  • Sterling silver or bronze beyond 7g is charged at $10 per gram + casting fee + GST
  • Casting fee is typically $6–8 + GST
  • Gold can be used and will be quoted at the day's market rate
  • Fine sterling silver chain available for $45
  • NZ Courier delivery (Urban $11.50 | Rural $17.50)
  • International Courier - will need to be quoted - all tariffs and import duties are the responsibility of the attendee.

Typical weights (after casting):

  • Ring: approx. 5–12g
  • Pendant: approx. 4–8g

Your piece will be weighed at the end of the session so everything is clear and upfront.

What to bring

  • Comfortable clothing
  • Flat, closed-toe shoes
  • Glasses if you wear them for close detail
  • A camera or phone if you'd like to document your process

There is plenty of street parking nearby.

Session times may vary slightly depending on the flow of the class — the focus is on process, not rushing.

Cancellation & transfers

  • In the unlikely event the class is cancelled or postponed, you'll be offered a full refund or transfer
  • If you can't attend, please get in touch — refunds are not offered, but we're happy to help you transfer your place
  • One week's written notice allows full credit transfer to another date
  • If you miss this window, you're welcome to gift your place to a friend

To transfer or discuss options, email:
sally.h@herbertandwilks.co.nz

Why this workshop is different

  • Traditional lost wax process, taught slowly and thoughtfully
  • A finished piece made from your own hands, not a kit
  • Calm, friendly, real studio environment in Mt Eden
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