The Gladstone club has a friendly social atmosphere with extensive facilities at their meeting hall, for members to turn their newly acquired stones into jewellery that they can wear or show with pride. Many areas are on private property that can only be visited by club-organized outings. Our trips are sometimes for a day but quite often a weekend or occasionally a week. With the hope of finding s
omething and the social atmosphere, these trips have always been a success. Diamond Saws:
The club has several diamonds saws ranging from 1500 - 600 mm. These are used for the cutting of rough materials to make them into workable pieces and slabs. These are used for the cutting and polishing of gemstones for those extra rings and earrings that you have always wanted. Tuition is available to members on a basis of two nights a week for two months. Silversmithing & Wire Wrapping:
Silversmithing is the art of making jewellery with the use of soldering. Wire wrapping does not require soldering. It is the art of twisting silver and gold wire to make intricate patterns around a cabochon or crystal. Casting:
A centrifugal casting machine is available casting silver and gold using the "lost wax" process. Wax patterns of charms, rings or pendants are available at the club for a small cost. Designs are also available through suppliers to the club. Cabochons Cutting:
Cutting, shaping and polishing a stone entirely by hand, into a round, oval, square, heart, tear-drop or free form-shape. Enjoy this art of turning a rock into a shaped and polished stone that can be set and worn. Other Interests:
Collecting of fossils, crystals, mineral specimens and petrified wood. Flat lapping:
Using the flat lap to smooth and polish larger flat slabs of stone to make ornaments, clock faces, book ends etc. Social evenings:
Held throughout the year with members and families. Workshop weekends:
Periodically conducted with visiting instructors. Affiliations with Australian Federation of Lapidary and Allied Crafts Association (AFLACA), Qld Gem Clubs of Australia (QGCA) and the Australian Facetors Guild. Australian Gem Club Directory (AGCD).
