Stone-on-Stone Setting with Master Michael Boyd

A Memorable Learning Experience with Master Jeweler Michael Boyd

Recently, I had the privilege of taking a virtual jewelry-making class with the extraordinary Michael Boyd through Metalwerx in Boston. This experience was nothing short of inspiring. Boyd is a true master in the art of creating jewelry, renowned for his innovative designs that feature stones layered on top of one another. His approach to jewelry making goes beyond traditional techniques, pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved with stone and metal. The class offered a rare opportunity to learn directly from someone whose work consistently challenges convention and inspires artists around the world. 

Getting to Know Michael Boyd: A Visionary in Jewelry Art 

Michael Boyd’s name is synonymous with innovative jewelry design. With decades of experience, he has carved out a niche by creating one-of-a-kind pieces that feature layered stones—a technique that highlights his mastery in both stone setting and metalwork. Boyd’s designs are instantly recognizable, often featuring gemstones that seem to float above one another, creating a mesmerizing depth and complexity in each piece. His background as a lapidary artist—a specialist in cutting and polishing gemstones—brings a distinct expertise to his work. This technical skill is matched by a unique aesthetic vision, resulting in jewelry that feels both grounded and ethereal. 

In his journey, Boyd has been celebrated for pushing the boundaries of traditional jewelry. His layered-stone technique requires an incredible level of precision and patience, as each piece must be perfectly aligned and secured. This approach to layering stones not only adds visual interest but also enhances the structural integrity of his designs, allowing him to explore forms and textures that are rarely seen in jewelry. His mastery extends to his use of color, often choosing gemstones that complement each other in unexpected ways, creating a harmonious yet striking contrast. 

The Virtual Classroom Experience 

Taking this class virtually was surprisingly effective. Despite not being in the same physical space, Boyd’s teaching style brought a sense of intimacy and engagement. He demonstrated each step with clarity, breaking down his process in a way that felt approachable and understandable, even for someone new to this technique. The focus of the class was on the layered-stone technique, a signature of Boyd’s work, and he explained every detail—how to select stones, align them precisely, and set them in a way that enhances their natural beauty. 

The virtual format allowed me to follow along at my own pace, pausing and rewinding parts of the demonstration as needed. Boyd was patient and incredibly generous with his knowledge, answering questions thoroughly and providing insights into his creative process. It was clear from the way he taught that he has a deep love for his craft and a genuine desire to share his skills with others. 

Learning the Layered-Stone Technique 

One of the most challenging aspects of the class was mastering the alignment of stones. Boyd guided us through his process for selecting stones that would pair well together, considering both their color and structure. He also showed us how to create a stable base for each layer, emphasizing the importance of precision and patience. Each step was meticulously demonstrated, and Boyd shared invaluable tips on how to troubleshoot common issues, such as ensuring the stones are securely set without damaging them. 

Working with layered stones is no easy feat, and Boyd’s approach requires a steady hand and a keen eye. As I followed along, I gained a newfound appreciation for the skill and dedication that goes into each of his pieces. I found myself challenged and inspired, and although I didn’t master the technique in one session, Boyd’s guidance gave me the confidence to keep practicing and refining my skills. 

Reflections on a Transformative Experience 

This class with Michael Boyd was more than just a technical lesson; it was an opportunity to connect with a community of like-minded artists who share a passion for jewelry-making. Boyd’s expertise and passion created a learning environment that was both challenging and supportive. I walked away with a deeper understanding of jewelry as an art form and a renewed enthusiasm for exploring my creativity. 

If you have the chance to learn from Michael Boyd, whether in person or virtually, I highly recommend it. His work is a testament to the beauty that can be achieved when skill, vision, and passion come together, and learning from him has been a transformative experience that I will carry with me in my artistic journey. 


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