About
Big Rapids Lapidary is a community-centered lapidary and jewelry makerspace dedicated to hands-on learning, craftsmanship, and creative exploration. We offer classes, workshops, and open studio access that make working with stone and metal approachable—whether you’re brand new or building on existing skills.
Our studio was created to give people access to professional tools, quality instruction, and a supportive environment without needing to invest in expensive equipment or prior experience. Here, learning happens by doing.
What We Do
We teach the fundamentals and beyond of lapidary and metalsmithing through small, instructor-led classes. Students learn how to cut, shape, polish, and transform stone, as well as how to fabricate and assemble jewelry using traditional metalsmithing techniques.
In addition to classes, we offer open studio time for qualified students who want to continue practicing independently, refine their skills, or work on personal projects using professional equipment.
Our Approach
We believe:
Craft is learned through hands-on experience
Everyone starts somewhere
Skill builds with practice, patience, and good instruction
Creative spaces should feel welcoming, not intimidating
Our classes are intentionally small so students receive individual guidance and feel confident using tools safely. We focus on process over perfection and encourage curiosity, experimentation, and problem-solving.
Classroom, Materials & Equipmet
We work with a wide range of stones, including Michigan-sourced materials such as Petoskey stone, Fossils, Lake Superior Agates, Leland Blue and other slag glass, geodes, and other favorites of lapidary artists. We use professional-grade equipment and quality materials so students can experience real tools and techniques from the start. We are equipped with four different lapidary saws, two cabbing machines, micromotors, dremels, grinders, drill press, belt sander, and more. We have professional hand tools and accessories, like diamond core drill bits, pumice buffing wheels and bits, dopping blocks, engraving bits, and more. For metalsmithing we use authentic silvers: sterling silver, pure silver, and argentium silver.
Our classroom was built to host 4-8 students doing lapidary work and using machines and workbenches comfortably. For classes that are family-friendly and do not require the use of most equipment, our classroom can hold up to 12 people comfortably. We have a fridge for our students who wish to bring their own food or drink in for longer classes. Our building has 3 bathrooms on site for guests to use.
Who We’re For
Big Rapids Lapidary is for:
Complete beginners who want to try something new
Makers interested in stone, jewelry, and craft
Locals and visitors looking for a meaningful, hands-on experience
Students who want to build skills toward independent studio use
You don’t need to be “artistic” or experienced—just curious and willing to learn.
Join Us
Whether you’re taking your first class, returning to build on your skills, or working toward open studio access, Big Rapids Lapidary is a place to slow down, work with your hands, and create something tangible.