Hand Fabricated Etruscan Chain with Gary Roe

September 20-27, 2026 $4300

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What to Expect

Using traditional metalsmithing techniques, learn how to create a beautiful handmade Etruscan bracelet from start to finish. In the artistically inspiring setting of Vicenza, Italy, we will fabricate chains inspired by the ancient jewelry style of the region. In addition to chain making, we’ll craft stylized end caps and an s-hook clasp to complete the bracelet. Options for additional decorative elements will be covered for the particularly ambitious. I will walk you through every step with extensive demonstrations, feedback, and individual attention.The focus of this class will be fabrication, soldering, and other metalsmithing techniques that will be applicable to improving all areas of your work.

Students need to posess solid knowledge of sawing, filing, and soldering skills.

❋ Level: Intermediate

Join a small group (six!) of jewelry makers to learn this traditional technique in one of Italy’s most important jewelry hubs and a sweet little town on it’s own.

❋ Collaborative Energy

Led by Monica Cardone of Ciao Monica, a metalsmith herself, makes sure your time during the week is fun, smooth, and keep things moving with purpose.

❋ Expert Facilitation
One spot open
Gold jewelry pieces, including earrings and a chain, displayed on a flat surface.
Two woven chain necklaces, one with gold and black and the other with silver and beige colors, are placed on a dark surface. One has hooks, and the other has clasp closures.
Gold chain necklace and a pile of gold paper clips on a gray surface.

Gary Roe

With a BFA in jewelry and metalsmithing from Maine College of Art, Gary dedicates his career to excellence in the craft, focusing on traditional fabrication, metal sculpting, stone setting and wax carving. He also has over twenty five years of service in restoring antique, historical, and museum jewelry pieces. See more of his work on Instagram @garyroejewelry

An older man with gray hair, beard, and glasses working on a craft at a wooden workbench in a workshop, with a window showing a wintery outdoor landscape.
Entrance to the Palazzo Scamozzi hotel in Vicenza, framed by an archway with two tall potted trees.

What’s Included?

7 nights Accommodations

Hotel room with a large bed, wooden wall panel behind the bed, two matching bedside lamps, a bedside table with a telephone, and a window with curtains showing rooftops outside.
Interior of a restaurant or café with orange velvet booths, beige chairs, and modern pendant lighting on the wall.

We’ll be staying at the lovely Palazzo Scamozzi. This hotel is located within the prestigious palace Braghetta Pagello, built in 1780. It takes its name from architect Ottavio Bertotti Scamozzi and is situated just a few steps from Piazza dei Signori which is the heart of the city. Comfy, clean, and friendly service.

The building has remained unchanged over the time and after a very careful two-year-long renovation work the designers have carefully curated the furniture which creates an harmony between ancient charm and modern design.

A charming breakfast room is available everyday of our week where we will feast on a full breakfast offering.

A wine glass being filled with white wine, with several empty wine glasses in the background, and a tray of sliced meat on the table.

Private Wine Tour and Tasting

After all of our hard work in the studio, this day we venture off to the tiny town of Gambellara to taste the famous wines made from the Garganega grape.

A decorative hanging lantern or chandelier with intricate metalwork, colorful gemstones, and dangling pearl-like ornaments.

Visit the Jewelry Museum

Visit Italy’s first jewelry museum and one of the only ones worldwide dedicated exclusively to jewelry. The exhibition features jewelry from antiquity to contemporary.

Front view of St. Mark's Basilica in Venice, Italy, showcasing intricate architecture, golden mosaics, and statues under a clear blue sky.

Day in Venice

After all that work of goldsmithing, we explore Venice with a visit to San Marco Basilica, where you’ll get a peek into the true culture of Venice. Lunch and leisurely stroll through Venice with a sneaky aperitivo along the way.

One Spot