In the Spotlight: Jewelry Studies International Opens in Austin

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Rio is a huge supporter of education in the jewelry industry and we’re overjoyed to announce the opening of Jewelry Studies International (JSI) in Austin, TX, by long-time friends of Rio, Ronda Coryell and Vasken Tanielian. JSI is focused on state of the art jewelry classes, certifications in 3Design CAD/CAM jewelry design and Jewelry Arts featuring Argentium^® Sterling Silver.

Jewelry Studies International provides instruction in jewelry design and fabrication to jewelry makers, from novice to master craftsmen, delivering classes for the professional jeweler, jewelry artists and crafts people seeking to take their art form to the next level. The school offers Jewelry Arts Diplomas and Certificates as well as Work Study and Scholarship programs.

In addition to an incredible history of creating beautiful jewelry, Ronda and Vasken have a long list of credentials and are masters in the area of jewelry fabrication and education. With Ronda’s School of Argentium and Vasken’s School of 3Design CAD/CAM, JSI combines ancient, traditional jewelry techniques with modern, cutting-edge methods. They were inspired to launch JSI because of the overwhelming amount of encouragement they received from students, vendors and associates. Their goal was to offer an environment and programs that distinguish JSI from other programs in the international jewelry education community.

JSI brings together a "who’s who" of professional instructors with a passion for sharing their jewelry knowledge and experience. But it’s not just about making; Jewelry Studies International is also dedicated to teaching future generations of metalsmiths and jewelers to be environmentally aware and they've set up the most ecologically friendly, "green" studio possible. JSI’s classes feature Argentium^® Sterling Silver (the most environmentally responsible silver available today - certified to be recycled from refineries and never from mines) as the metal of choice.

In January, JSI launched their new school with the Meeting of the Masters series featuring Kate Wolf and Hratch Nargizian. They’ll be hosting workshops throughout the year featuring top-flight artists and Master Jewelers from around the world.

OK, you’ve finished reading the post now go check out schedule of classes and start planning your trip to Austin!