Academic Catalog 2024-2025

Jewelry (JWLR)

JWLR-205  Jewelry I  - (3 Credits)  
This fundamental course is an introduction to basic direct metal fabrication techniques used to create small scale, wearable objects using non-ferrous metals. Design development is addressed as an extension of studio work with special attention paid to issues relation to scale and the body. NOTE: This course is a pre-requisite for all jewelry technical studios.
JWLR-206  Jewelry II  - (3 Credits)  
This course builds upon the skills developed in Jewelry I. Students learn advanced direct metal fabrication techniques suitable for building small-scale, wearable objects with volume and depth. Precision and craftsmanship are emphasized as students integrate design concepts addressing scale and wearability with more complex techniques.
JWLR-221  Perspectives in Jewelry Cad/Cam Tech  - (3 Credits)  
This class integrates the development of technical skill in rapid prototyping technologies with the student's studio practice. Students will use CAD software at all steps of the design process, from sketch to final product. We will actively approach the use of CAD/CAM as a means to an end in relation to more traditional studio processes such as creating molds, jigs, dies, and other tools.
JWLR-305  Jewelry III  - (3 Credits)  
This course is he first half of a year-long course sequence required for junior jewelry students. Students will develop as designers and makers of wearable objects by dramatically expanding their repertoire of technical skills and enhancing concept development.
JWLR-306  Jewelry IV  - (3 Credits)  
Jewelry IV is the second half of a year-long course sequence required for jewelry students. Paramount to this course is ideation beyond process, focusing on the incorporation of digital processes into studio practice and concepts for wearable technology. Work will be analyzed in terms of its means of generation, curation and concept articulation.
JWLR-311  2D Digital and Design for Jewelers  - (3 Credits)  
2D Digital + Design for jewelers will use hand drawing and digital processes to further the study of specific concepts and processes necessary for 2D jewelry drafting, design and rendering. Relevant design software will be used to create technical drawings, mechanicals and renderings expanding the student's ability to articulate their ideas and establish good design practices. Projects will take on an increasingly supportive role and reflect work produced in the major studio classes.
JWLR-329  Jewelry Bench Skills Mechanics  - (3 Credits)  
In this course, students will advance their bench skills by learning a variety of specialized, complex mechanics applicable to small-scale work using non-ferrous metals. Students will be able to fabricate a variety of stone settings, findings, hinges, screw mechanisms and joints in metal. By increasing precision and critical thinking about the function of jewelry, students will be able to create more sophisticated and complex designs.
JWLR-405  Jewelry V  - (3 Credits)  
This course is the first half of a year-long course sequence required for senior jewelry students. It is designed for the Jewelry student to focus on the development and execution of a cohesive body of wearable work for an evolving portfolio and exhibition. Students will formulate a thesis proposal and begin fabrication their thesis collection by applying the appropriate techniques and materials relative to a chosen theme.
JWLR-406  Jewelry VI  - (3 Credits)  
This course is the second half of a year-long course sequence required for senior jewelry students. In this course, jewelry students will complete a cohesive body of wearable work and prepare that collection for public presentation. Students will complete the fabrication of work evolved from the fall semester's proposal and development phase, while simultaneously preparing for the senior thesis exhibition. Special attention will be paid to display issues associated with wearable objects, as well as topics that create synergy between this course and the Jewelry: Professional Practice course.
JWLR-411  Jewelry Concepts and Collections  - (3 Credits)  
This required senior thesis course is designed to work in conjunction with the studio and will enable students to refine the ideation and conceptualization of their collections through writing, research, discussion and critique. Students will explore pertinent issues in the industry such as ethical and sustainable practices and functionality of the wearable object.
JWLR-431  Jewelry: Professional Practices  - (3 Credits)  
Jewelry: Professional Practices will expose students to the expectations and realities of working in a professional environment. A fast-paces approach will be taken in exploring design trends, developing marketing strategies using social media, and honing writing and presentation skills.