From Scrap to Statement: Ingot Keepsake Necklace at Meltdown

A hands-on journey from raw metal to meaningful jewelry

This past Saturday, Meltdown Studio welcomed a dynamic group of students to one of the most inspiring workshops in our Make it at Meltdown series: the Ingot Keepsake Necklace Class.

What set this class apart was the remarkable transformation that unfolded throughout the day. Participants began with unassuming pieces of scrap silver, which they melted down into fresh, gleaming ingots. From there, each student engaged in the tactile process of shaping their metal using the rolling mill: flattening, texturing, and refining the surface to suit their individual design.

With their silver prepared, students advanced to one of the most rewarding phases: soldering bezels to hold their selected gemstones. Through expert instruction and hands-on guidance, they also explored hand-stamping techniques to add meaningful personal details. Along the way, they gained confidence with each tool and technique, many for the first time.

The final and most expressive step was choosing a gemstone. The studio table was filled with an array of vibrant options, including turquoise, amethyst, peridot, garnet, and more. Each student selected the stone that resonated with them personally, ensuring every finished necklace carried a unique story and spirit.

Workshops like this embody the heart of what we do at Meltdown Studio. They are not only about learning how to make jewelry but about discovering the joy of process, the power of creativity, and the satisfaction of crafting something entirely one of a kind. The transformation from raw material to wearable art is both technical and deeply personal.

To everyone who joined us on Saturday, thank you. Your creativity, focus, and curiosity continue to inspire our community and our work.

If you're interested in experiencing a class like this for yourself, we invite you to explore our upcoming schedule or stop by the studio. We look forward to welcoming you soon.