BENCH🔥FUSION SCHEDULE
AJS Fall Seminars will take place in a classroom on the show floor during show hours and are free of charge. All AJS attendees are welcome to register and attend these informative and inspiring sessions.
- • Entry to the AJS Fall Show and show floor seminars is FREE for retail businesses that meet our entrance criteria.
- • After you receive your badge confirmation email, please keep an eye out for a second email containing a link to register for our seminars. This follow-up email will provide all the details needed to sign up for our informative and inspiring sessions.
Bench🔥Fusion Seminars containing the Bench Fusion logo next to the description are part of the Bench Fusion Event. This special event requires registration and a $99 entry fee. While AJS is producing Bench Fusion, please be aware that it is a separate event running alongside the Fall edition of the Atlanta Jewelry Show.
- • The Bench Fusion Event requires a $99 entry fee (per person). This fee guarantees an exclusive, tailored experience, connecting select attendees with similar interests.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 24, 2024
STAGE 1
STAGE 2
STAGE 3
Tira Mitchell
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Elevate Your Craft: Stone Setting, Engraving Tips & Tricks
Presented by Tira Mitchell
Fusion Stage 1
Join Tira Mitchell from Engraver.com to up your jewelry, engraving or stone setting game with some easy tips & tricks. Discover easy to make tools to add texture, background, and contrast to your work. Play with light to highlight parts of your work. Topics covered: Punches for sculpting/hammering, beading tools, texture tools, border intersections and how to cut straight lines easily.
Gary Dawson
 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Integrating Additive Manufacturing: Revolutionizing Bench & Workshop Practices
Presented by: Gary Dawson
Fusion Stage 2
Join Gary Dawson for an insightful session on the transformative potential of additive manufacturing in the jewelry industry. While designers have widely adopted CAD, many traditional jewelry workshops have yet to fully utilize these cutting-edge manufacturing strategies. By integrating these advanced techniques into everyday bench practices, jewelers can streamline repair and restoration processes, enhance efficiency, and breathe new life into their businesses. Gary will start with an overview of the additive manufacturing process and then explore how to effectively combine it with traditional methods. Discover how using the most appropriate and efficient processes for various tasks can open up new revenue channels and expand your workshop's possibilities for restorations and custom creations.
Jason Chandler
10:00 AM - 11:00 AMÂ
Pro Tips: Working in White Gold
Presented by: Jason Chandler
Fusion Stage 3
Join us for an in-depth session on the techniques of fabricating and casting jewelry in white gold. This session will cover the entire process, from initial design to final product, with a special emphasis on the unique challenges and considerations when working with white gold. Learn about the specific steps required for casting and the specialized finishing techniques to achieve the perfect look. Gain practical tips and insights to enhance your craftsmanship in working with this elegant metal.
Tira Mitchell
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Mastering the Art of Engraving: Sharpening & Shaping Gravers for Jewelry
Presented by: Tira Mitchell
Fusion Stage 1
Join Tira Mitchell from Engraver.com for an in-depth session on the essential techniques of sharpening and shaping gravers for fine jewelry engraving. Whether you're creating gravers from blanks or modifying pre-ground gravers to enhance their performance, Tira will guide you through each step to ensure your tools are perfectly suited to your needs. Learn how to choose between High-Speed Steel and Carbide gravers, and discover how to match graver geometry to the specific tasks at hand. This session and demonstration will empower you with the skills to shape and sharpen your tools for precise and beautiful engraving work, elevating the quality of your craftsmanship.
Jordan Mantzke
 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
YouTube Success for Jewelers: Behind the Scenes with Jordan Mantzke
Presented by: Jordan Mantzke
Fusion Stage 2
Join Jordan Mantzke, a goldsmith and YouTube sensation, for an insightful session on how video content can revolutionize your jewelry business. With over 30 million views and 325K subscribers, Jordan has mastered the art of engaging audiences through custom jewelry, restoration, and videography. In this session, he will reveal his one-man setup for filming, the essential tools he uses for editing, and his strategic approach to leveraging his video library to generate business and close sales. Gain practical tips and inspiration from Jordan's success story to enhance your own online presence and grow your jewelry business through compelling video content.
Jason Chandler
 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Hand Fabrication: Creating a Classic Wire Head
Presented by: Jason Chandler
Fusion Stage 3
Join Jason Chandler from Portland Jewelry Academy as he demonstrates the steps to hand manufacture a classic metal head for setting stones in jewelry. This session will provide invaluable insights into the art of building essential parts for jewelry. By mastering these techniques, you’ll ensure that you never find yourself missing a critical component in your creations.
Kevin Reilly
Josh Helmich
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Inoveo Platinum: The New Platinum Alloy at the Bench
Presented by:
Kevin Reilly, Senior Vice President, Platinum Guild International
& Josh Helmich, CEO, Helmich Luxury Group
Fusion Stage 2
Platinum Guild International introduces Inoveo Platinum, a revolutionary new alloy that combines all the benefits of platinum with the ease of fabricating jewelry akin to white gold. In this session, discover the best practices for working with Inoveo Platinum and learn how this innovative material can simplify the integration of platinum into your jewelry creations. Whether you've been hesitant to use platinum or are looking to expand your expertise, this session will provide you with the knowledge and confidence to incorporate Inoveo Platinum into your work seamlessly.
Tira Mitchell
2:30 PM - 3:30 PMÂ
Mastering Microscopes: Enhancing Precision & Versatility for Bench Jewelers
Presented by: Tira Mitchell
Fusion Stage 1
Join Tira Mitchell for a comprehensive session on how bench jewelers can leverage the power of microscopes to enhance their precision work and explore additional uses. Whether you're new to using microscopes or looking to live stream your intricate work, this class offers valuable insights and techniques. Topics include understanding the differences between various types of microscopes, mastering focus to maintain clarity at different zoom levels, synchronizing cameras with live views, and capturing audio for a multi-view setup ideal for recording or livestreaming. Elevate your craftsmanship and presentation skills with practical knowledge tailored for today's jewelers.
Melissa Muir
 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Bench Essentials: New Tools & Accessories with YouTube Star Melissa Muir
Presented by: Melissa Muir
Fusion Stage 2
Join versatile jeweler and YouTube sensation Melissa Muir for an exciting session on the latest tools and accessories for your jeweler's bench. Whether you're just starting to build your bench or are an experienced bench jeweler, Melissa will provide valuable advice and live demonstrations of the newest must-have tools and accessories. Get the how-tos for permanent jewelry along with safety tips. Discover the innovations that can enhance your efficiency and craftsmanship. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of the best in the business and upgrade your bench setup. Check out Melissa's YouTube Channel for more tips and tricks: Melissa Muir YouTube Channel.
Gary Dawson
2:30 PM - 3:30 PMÂ
Holding Steady: Get the Most Out of Your Laser Welder
Presented by: Gary Dawson
Fusion Stage 3
Shooting a rifle and shooting a laser may be more similar than you think. Â In this presentation, Gary Dawson takes points from a professional sniper and applies the concept of holding steady to laser welding with precision. Â Included will be strategies for both weld penetration and finishing with an examination of the micro-structure of a laser weld. Â By understanding some of these simple concepts, your laser welds will improve while you become faster at the task.
Tira Mitchell
 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Mastering Gold Inlay: Techniques and Custom Tools
Presented by: Tira Mitchell
Fusion Stage 1
Join expert Tira Mitchell as she demonstrates the fundamental techniques of gold inlay. In this comprehensive session, you'll learn how to evacuate a cavity, prepare surfaces to securely hold precious metals, and master the art of undercutting and cold-fusing metal. Tira will also cover the finishing touches to achieve a flawless surface. A special emphasis will be placed on customizing tools to enhance your craftsmanship. This session is perfect for jewelers looking to refine their skills and add exquisite gold inlay to their repertoire.
Joel McFadden
4:00 PM - 5:00 PMÂ
The ABC's of Starting a Trade Shop
Presented by: Joel McFadden; Jason Champion
Fusion Stage 2
Thinking about starting your own jewelry trade shop? Join our panel of successful shop owners as they share their expertise on the essential equipment and supplies needed to get started. This discussion will cover the crucial knowledge base you should possess and the key strategies for building and maintaining a strong customer base. Gain valuable insights and practical advice to help you launch and grow a successful jewelry trade shop.
Jason Chandler
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Choosing the Right Path: Education & Training for Jewelers
Presented by: Jason Chandler
Fusion Stage 3
No matter your level of expertise, there are educational and training options available to help you advance your skills as a jeweler. Join Jason Chandler, Founder and Instructor of Portland Jewelry Academy, as he provides valuable insights into selecting the right educational step for your career progression. Learn about various programs, including those from the Gemological Institute of America, Portland Jewelry Academy, the Paris School, and the New Approach School for Jewelers. Discover details on pricing, class duration, and the specific goals each training option can help you achieve. Find out which choice is the best fit for you and take your skills to the next level.
Danny Hansen
5:00 PM - 6:00 PMÂ
From Hobby to Empire: The Crafty Celts Journey
Presented by: Danny & Sherry Hansen, Owners of Craft Celts
Fusion Stage 2
Join Danny and Sherry Hansen, the visionary duo behind Crafty Celts, as they share their remarkable journey of transforming a passionate hobby into a thriving online empire. This session is a must-attend for bench jewelers looking for inspiration and practical insights on growing their craft into a thriving business. In this session, Danny and Sherry will share their story, from humble beginnings to becoming a household name in the jewelry world. Attendees will learn about the challenges they faced, the strategies they used to grow their businesses, and the pivotal moments that led to their success. This session is designed to inspire and motivate bench jewelers to pursue their dreams and explore the endless possibilities within the world of jewelry making.
 SUNDAY, AUGUST 25, 2024
STAGE 1
STAGE 2
STAGE 3
Tira Mitchell
10:00 AM - 11:00 AMÂ
Mastering the Art of Engraving: Sharpening & Shaping Gravers for Jewelry
Presented by: Tira Mitchell
Fusion Stage 1
Join Tira Mitchell from Engraver.com for an in-depth session on the essential techniques of sharpening and shaping gravers for fine jewelry engraving. Whether you're creating gravers from blanks or modifying pre-ground gravers to enhance their performance, Tira will guide you through each step to ensure your tools are perfectly suited to your needs. Learn how to choose between High-Speed Steel and Carbide gravers, and discover how to match graver geometry to the specific tasks at hand. This session and demonstration will empower you with the skills to shape and sharpen your tools for precise and beautiful engraving work, elevating the quality of your craftsmanship.
Gary Dawson
10:00 AM - 11:00 AMÂ
Fundamentals of Gemstone Settings in Rhinoceros 3D
Presented by: Gary Dawson
Fusion Stage 2
Join Gary Dawson for an engaging live presentation on the essential techniques and capabilities of CAD design using Rhinoceros 3D. This session will guide you through processes and workflow strategies for creating both simple and complex gemstone settings in Rhino. Learn how to design round and uniquely shaped bezels, round prongs, and marquise cage settings with end caps, all demonstrated live. Whether you're new to CAD design or looking to refine your skills, this session will provide valuable insights to enhance your jewelry design capabilities. Discover why unique designs sell, and repetition smells, as you elevate your craftsmanship with Rhinoceros 3D.
Jason Chandler
10:00 AM - 11:00 AMÂ
Hand Fabrication: Essential Tips & Tricks for Bench Jewelers
Presented by: Jason Chandler
Fusion Stage 3
Join Jason Chandler, Instructor and Founder of Portland Jewelry Academy, for an invaluable session on the art of hand fabrication. This session is designed for bench jewelers looking to enhance their skills and ensure they always have access to the right parts. Jason will share expert tips and tricks for hand fabricating a head and other crucial components from raw materials. By mastering hand fabrication, jewelers can achieve greater flexibility and independence in their work, allowing them to create custom parts on demand and maintain the highest standards of craftsmanship. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a seasoned professional and elevate your bench skills.
Tira Mitchell
11:30 AM - 12:30 PMÂ
Mastering Microscopes: Enhancing Precision & Versatility for Bench Jewelers
Presented by: Tira Mitchell
Fusion Stage 1
Join Tira Mitchell for a comprehensive session on how bench jewelers can leverage the power of microscopes to enhance their precision work and explore additional uses. Whether you're new to using microscopes or looking to live stream your intricate work, this class offers valuable insights and techniques. Topics include understanding the differences between various types of microscopes, mastering focus to maintain clarity at different zoom levels, synchronizing cameras with live views, and capturing audio for a multi-view setup ideal for recording or livestreaming. Elevate your craftsmanship and presentation skills with practical knowledge tailored for today's jewelers.
Melissa Muir
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Bench Essentials: New Tools & Accessories with YouTube Star Melissa Muir
Presented by: Melissa Muir
Fusion Stage 2
Join versatile jeweler and YouTube sensation Melissa Muir for an exciting session on the latest tools and accessories for your jeweler's bench. Whether you're just starting to build your bench or are an experienced bench jeweler, Melissa will provide valuable advice and live demonstrations of the newest must-have tools and accessories. Get the how-tos for permanent jewelry along with safety tips. Discover the innovations that can enhance your efficiency and craftsmanship. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of the best in the business and upgrade your bench setup. Check out Melissa's YouTube Channel for more tips and tricks: Melissa Muir YouTube Channel.
Gary Dawson
11:30 AM - 12:30 PMÂ
Holding Steady: Get the Most Out of Your Laser Welder
Presented by: Gary Dawson
Fusion Stage 3
Shooting a rifle and shooting a laser may be more similar than you think. Â In this presentation, Gary Dawson takes points from a professional sniper and applies the concept of holding steady to laser welding with precision. Â Included will be strategies for both weld penetration and finishing with an examination of the micro-structure of a laser weld. Â By understanding some of these simple concepts, your laser welds will improve while you become faster at the task.
Tira Mitchell
2:30 PM - 3:30 PMÂ
Mastering Gold Inlay: Techniques & Custom Tools
Presented by: Tira Mitchell
Fusion Stage 1
Join expert Tira Mitchell as she demonstrates the fundamental techniques of gold inlay. In this comprehensive session, you'll learn how to evacuate a cavity, prepare surfaces to securely hold precious metals, and master the art of undercutting and cold-fusing metal. Tira will also cover the finishing touches to achieve a flawless surface. A special emphasis will be placed on customizing tools to enhance your craftsmanship. This session is perfect for jewelers looking to refine their skills and add exquisite gold inlay to their repertoire.
Gary Dawson
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Introduction to Rhino
Presented by: Gary Dawson
Fusion Stage 2
Join Gary Dawson, founder of rhinojewelrycad.com, for an insightful session on the basics of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) in jewelry making. This introductory workshop is perfect for jewelers looking to enhance their design capabilities and streamline their production processes. Gary will cover essential CAD concepts, tools, and techniques, helping you take the first step towards mastering digital design in your jewelry creations. Whether you're new to CAD or seeking to refine your skills, this session offers valuable knowledge and practical tips to elevate your craft.
Jason Chandler
2:30 PM - 3:30 PMÂ
Hand Fabrication: Creating a Classic Wire Head
Presented by: Jason Chandler
Fusion Stage 3
Join Jason Chandler from Portland Jewelry Academy as he demonstrates the steps to hand manufacture a classic metal head for setting stones in jewelry. This session will provide invaluable insights into the art of building essential parts for jewelry. By mastering these techniques, you’ll ensure that you never find yourself missing a critical component in your creations.
Tira Mitchell
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Elevate Your Craft: Stone Setting and Engraving Tips and Tricks
Presented by Tira Mitchell
Fusion Stage 1
Join Tira Mitchell for an informative session on stone setting and engraving, designed to help you master the art of shaping and sharpening your tools to achieve precision and excellence in your work. In this session, Tira will demonstrate how to create gravers from blanks and modify pre-ground gravers to enhance their performance. You’ll learn how to choose between High-Speed Steel and Carbide gravers and understand how to match the graver geometry to the specific tasks you need to accomplish. Whether you're a novice or an experienced professional, this session will equip you with practical tips and tricks to elevate your craftsmanship.
Joel McFadden
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
How Bench Jewelers Successfully Transition to a Retail Business
Presented by: Joel McFadden
Fusion Stage 2
This engaging session explores the journey from the workbench to a thriving retail business. Learn from industry experts about the key steps and strategies for bench jewelers to transition into successful retail entrepreneurs. This session covers essential topics such as business planning, marketing, customer service, and inventory management. Gain insights and practical advice to help you navigate the challenges and opportunities of expanding your jewelry business into the retail market.
Gary Dawson
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Jewelry Alloy Hardening & Hardness: Simplifying the Science for Bench Professionals
Presented by: Gary Dawson
Fusion Stage 3
Join us for an insightful session designed for new and established bench professionals, where we will simplify the science behind hardening jewelry alloys. The presenter, Gary Dawson, will provide an accessible overview of the testing procedures and results, focusing on the practical applications of your workshop. Learn how to determine the optimal time and temperature conditions for hardening gold and silver alloys, whether they're in a cold-worked, fully annealed, or precipitation-hardened state. Discover easy, in-shop methods for assessing hardness and the effectiveness of thermal treatments, empowering you to enhance the durability and quality of your handcrafted jewelry. Special thanks to Stewart Grice and Dr. Andrew Nyce for their expert contributions.
MONDAY, AUGUST 26, 2024
STAGE 1
Tira Mitchell
9:30 AM - 10:30 AMÂ
Mastering the Art of Engraving: Sharpening & Shaping Gravers for Fine Jewelry
Presented by: Tira Mitchell
Fusion Stage 1
Join Tira Mitchell from Engraver.com to up your jewelry, engraving or stone setting game with some easy tips & tricks. Discover easy to make tools to add texture, background, and contrast to your work. Play with light to highlight parts of your work. Topics covered: Punches for sculpting/hammering, beading tools, texture tools, border intersections and how to cut straight lines easily.
STAGE 2
Joel McFadden
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
The ABC's of Starting a Trade Shop
Presented by: Joel McFadden; Gary Dawson
Fusion Stage 2
Thinking about starting your own jewelry trade shop? Join our panel of successful shop owners as they share their expertise on the essential equipment and supplies needed to get started. This discussion will cover the crucial knowledge base you should possess and the key strategies for building and maintaining a strong customer base. Gain valuable insights and practical advice to help you launch and grow a successful jewelry trade shop.
STAGE 3
Gary Dawson
12:30 PM - 1:30 PMÂ
Introduction to Rhino
Presented by: Gary Dawson
Fusion Stage 2
Join Gary Dawson, founder of rhinojewelrycad.com, for an insightful session on the basics of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) in jewelry making. This introductory workshop is perfect for jewelers looking to enhance their design capabilities and streamline their production processes. Gary will cover essential CAD concepts, tools, and techniques, helping you take the first step towards mastering digital design in your jewelry creations. Whether you're new to CAD or seeking to refine your skills, this session offers valuable knowledge and practical tips to elevate your craft.