Alchimia Contemporary Jewellery School
School
Published: 16.09.2025
alchimia.it
There cannot be any true innovation without the knowledge of what came before. Tradition and innovation, like mind and hand, need to move together.
Founded in 1998 and currently directed by Lucia Massei, Alchimia Contemporary Jewellery School offers comprehensive two-year BFA and MFA programs -private diploma. These programs have been consolidated over more than a decade of experience, developed in close collaboration with an international team of teachers and advisors, all of whom are recognized leaders in their respective creative disciplines.
Alchimia’s mission is to enable students to express their creativity through contemporary jewellery, while acquiring advanced technical and theoretical skills. By embracing technological developments and the most progressive cultural trends, Alchimia supports students in expanding their talents. Its pedagogical approach combines the study and refinement of traditional techniques and carefully selected materials with experimental and innovative design practices. In doing so, students are guided in transforming ideas and research into jewellery and design objects, and in preparing to engage professionally within the field.
Students are mentored by experts in jewellery, design, and the visual arts. Tutors share their knowledge of techniques, tendencies, and developments within the contemporary jewellery landscape, while fostering individual creativity. Through personalized guidance and continuous evaluation, they accompany students throughout their academic path, ensuring both artistic and professional growth.
The programme is sustained by a range of academic and professional activities, including guest lectures, study excursions, professional practice workshops and live projects.
Alchimia is a private institution that issues its own diploma, and therefore its programs are not accredited by the Italian Ministry of Education, Universities and Research (MIUR). The school is, however, accredited by the European Accreditation Board of Higher Education (EABHES).
Programme Tutors:
David Clarke, Evert Nijland, Lucia Massei, Sanaa Khalil.
Check here the BFA Catalogue.
Check here the MFA Catalogue.
Check here the Intensive / TEC Catalogue.
Alchimia’s mission is to enable students to express their creativity through contemporary jewellery, while acquiring advanced technical and theoretical skills. By embracing technological developments and the most progressive cultural trends, Alchimia supports students in expanding their talents. Its pedagogical approach combines the study and refinement of traditional techniques and carefully selected materials with experimental and innovative design practices. In doing so, students are guided in transforming ideas and research into jewellery and design objects, and in preparing to engage professionally within the field.
Students are mentored by experts in jewellery, design, and the visual arts. Tutors share their knowledge of techniques, tendencies, and developments within the contemporary jewellery landscape, while fostering individual creativity. Through personalized guidance and continuous evaluation, they accompany students throughout their academic path, ensuring both artistic and professional growth.
The programme is sustained by a range of academic and professional activities, including guest lectures, study excursions, professional practice workshops and live projects.
Alchimia is a private institution that issues its own diploma, and therefore its programs are not accredited by the Italian Ministry of Education, Universities and Research (MIUR). The school is, however, accredited by the European Accreditation Board of Higher Education (EABHES).
Programme Tutors:
David Clarke, Evert Nijland, Lucia Massei, Sanaa Khalil.
Check here the BFA Catalogue.
Check here the MFA Catalogue.
Check here the Intensive / TEC Catalogue.
Courses
Intensive Jewellery and Design Courses
01Jan2025 - 31Dec2025DEADLINE: 31/Dec/2025
Application
Tags: Technics
Management person: Lucia Massei
Dates: The courses have open dates throughout the year, beginning each Monday. Ask for availability, only 8 spots are offered.
The intensive jewellery courses are workshops with personalized curricula, designed to meet today’s needs for intense, specialized, individual coaching. The programs range from a sneak peek into jewellery making to highly specialized professional training. The proposed curricula function as guidelines to be further discussed and fine-tuned with teachers and staff to meet each student’s specific needs. A very flexible schedule allows students to individually choose the course dates, beginning on Mondays and ending on Fridays during the entire year. The weekly course schedule comprises 30 hours of practical jewellery making and two hours of analysis and creative advice.
Whom are they made for: Beginners, designers, professors, jewellers who want to specialize in a specific technique, or jewellery artists who necessitate a period of full immersion to have a new creative stimulus.
Duration: From a minimum of two weeks to a maximum of three months.
Schedule: 20 hours of class per week / Monday/Friday 9.00–13.00 with the teacher/14.00–17.00 independent work at the bench.
All the materials used for the course (excluding gold and precious stones) are provided by the school as well as all the necessary tools.
For more detailed information visit the Website
* Image credit: Headdress by Olga Van Domm (Intensive course student).
3D Modelling + 3D Printing + GRS Micro-setting & Engraving
12Mar2025 - 12Mar2026DEADLINE: 12/Mar/2026
Application
Tags: Technics , ProfessionalPractice , Making
Management person: Lucia Massei
Alchimia presents a comprehensive course combining 3D modelling, 3D printing, and GRS micro-stone setting & engraving. This unique program blends modern digital techniques with traditional craftsmanship, offering participants an all-encompassing skill set for creating intricate, high-quality jewelry pieces. Ideal for both beginners and advanced artisans, this course will help you master the integration of 3D technology with hands-on micro-stone setting and engraving.
Goals:
This course aims to make students independent in the creation of a jewelry piece, from digital design and 3D printing to micro-stone setting and engraving. By the end of the course, students will have developed the ability to design, 3D print and engrave an intricate ring using modern tools like GraverMax, microscopes, and spheres, as well as traditional methods.
Course structure:
The program is divided into two main sessions, providing a balanced blend of digital technology and traditional craftsmanship, hands-on lessons and theoretical lessons.
Weeks 1-2: 3D MODELING AND PRINTING FOR JEWELRY
- Location: Kentstrappers srl – via Livorno 8/24 – Florence
- Schedule: From Monday to Friday, 6 hours a day, 30 hours per week, for a total of 60 hours. In this part of the course, participants are introduced to jewelry design using Rhinoceros software. Students will learn to create digital models ready for production through 3D printing, using materials suitable for casting. The lessons cover both modelling and printing processes, with the official McNeal certification awarded upon completion.
Weeks 3-6: MICRO-STONE SETTING AND ENGRAVING TECHNIQUES
- Location: Alchimia – piazza Piattelliina 3/r – Florence
- Schedule: From Monday to Friday with daily classes from 9 AM to 1 PM and 2 PM to 6 PM, for a total of 160 hours, including 112 hours of guided instruction and 48 hours of independent practice. This part of the course focuses on precision stone setting and engraving using GRS tools such as GraverMax and microscopes. Students will practice various techniques for setting stones and engraving on metals like copper, brass, and silver. The hands-on sessions will cover both traditional and modern tools, including air tools, to develop precision and master a range of engraving and stone-setting techniques.
What students get from Alchimia:
- Personal tools.
- Non-precious metals and semi-precious stones provided by the school.
- Semi- finished silver rings and sample to set stones.
- Personal bench for all the duration of the course to improve skills during the independent practice time.
- Students can stay at Alchimia till 6.00 pm using all the facilities of the school.
- The pieces executed during the course are for the property of the students.
- Official McNeal certification awarded upon completion (provided by Kentstrapper).
Equipment:
Access to essential tools and materials, including stones, drill bits, burrs, GRS equipment, and 3D printing supplies. Each student will have their own personal bench.
Schedule and fees:
Duration: 6 weeks (220 hours).
Dates: 1st Starting date from March 2025
Fee: 7.500 € for the full 6-week course
Administration fee: 100 €
Language: Italian and English
Lesson plan
The course lasts 6 weeks, totalling 220 hours, which includes 172 hours of guided instruction and 48 hours of independent practice. The program covers 60 hours of 3D modelling and 3D printing, along with 160 hours dedicated to GRS micro-stone setting and engraving.
Booking your seat
The course begins in March 2025. Our commitment to personalized attention ensures a maximum of 6 students per class, therefore we recommend contacting info@alchimia.it to reserve your spot.
Microscope Stone Setting Course & Engraving with GRS and GraverMax Air
01Jan2026 - 31Dec2026DEADLINE: 31/Dec/2026
Application
Tags: Technics , ProfessionalPractice , Making
Management person: Lucia Massei
Alchimia is proud to present the first course in Florence featuring the use of binocular microscopes, spheres, and GraverMax for Micro Stone Setting and Engraving. This course offers a unique opportunity to enhance creativity and skills through the combination of studying and practicing these techniques with the best tools available. This exclusive course is tailored to both beginners and advanced setters, providing a comprehensive journey towards mastery in micro stone setting and engraving.
Goals:
Throughout this course, students will acquire a comprehensive set of skills and knowledge tailored to enhance their proficiency in micro stone setting and engraving. They will delve into the mastery of micro-setting techniques, gaining the ability to set up microscopes, handpieces, and controls for precision work. Additionally, students will learn the essential aspects of tool preparation, including sharpening, polishing, and crafting specialized implements, all while optimizing tool usage for the most effective results.
Furthermore, they will master various stone setting techniques, such as prong, bezel, channel, flush, invisible setting, and micro-pavé, enabling them to produce high-quality jewelry pieces with precision and finesse. Moreover, the course will focus on honing students’ engraving proficiency, covering everything from tool sharpening to achieving a diverse range of cuts, allowing them to express their creativity.
Throughout their learning journey, students will benefit from personalized instruction, thanks to our low student-to-instructor ratio, ensuring that they receive tailored guidance to meet individual needs. This personalized approach will elevate their comprehension and mastery of stone setting and engraving techniques, empowering them to excel in their craft. Moreover, students will gain familiarity and confidence in handling GRS equipment and air gravers efficiently, further enhancing their skills and enabling them to work with precision and ease.
By the end of the course, students will emerge with enhanced proficiency, confidence, and mastery in micro stone setting and engraving, ready to embark on new creative endeavours with skill and confidence.
What students get:
- Personal tools provided by the school.
- Non-precious metals and semi-precious stones are provided by the school.
- Semi-finished silver rings and a sample to set stones.
- Personal bench for the entire duration of the course to improve skills during the independent practice time.
- Students can stay at Alchimia till 6.00 pm using all the facilities of the school.
- The pieces executed during the course are property of the students.
Equipment:
Access to essential tools and materials including stones, drill bits, burrs, beading tools, practice plates, ring samples, binocular microscopes and GRS equipment.
Schedule and fees:
Duration: From a minimum of 2 weeks to a maximum of 3 months.
Should the course be extended beyond three months, the school will issue the necessary documentation to support the application for a student visa for individuals from non-European countries.
Dates: The courses have open dates throughout the year, beginning each Monday.
From Monday to Friday: 9.00 AM – 1.00 PM + 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Fee: 2 weeks (80h): 2.600 € + 100 € (Administration fee)
Addtional week: 1.200 €
All Levels
Language: Italian and English
More information at Micro-stone Setting & Engraving Course
Program
Stone setting
- Tool Preparation and Setup: Instruction begins with the proper setup and maintenance of stone-setting tools, including gravers and microscopically assisted devices. This includes sharpening tools and selecting the right burrs and drills for different types of stones and settings.
- Stone Setting Techniques: Participants will practice a range of setting methods, from basic to more advanced techniques, learning how to securely set synthetic stones in copper and brass sheets, as well as in silver rings provided by the school. Techniques covered include prong setting, bezel setting, and more intricate styles used in contemporary jewelry design.
- Integrating 3D Printing: As part of the learning process, students will also explore how to integrate settings created through 3D printing with traditional stone-setting techniques. This combination of digital and hands-on methods will help students master the process of incorporating modern technology into the creation of bespoke jewelry.
- Introduction to Engraving Tools: Participants will start by familiarizing themselves with a range of engraving tools, including onglette gravers, rigata gravers, and modern air-powered tools such as the GraverMax. They will also learn how to prepare their tools to ensure precision, practicing with basic techniques on copper and brass plates before moving on to more detailed work on silver.
- Basic Engraving Techniques: Students will first focus on fundamental engraving techniques such as line engraving and scroll engraving. These exercises help develop the control and precision necessary for more intricate designs, such as the classical silk effect achieved with the rigata graver.
- Microscope-Assisted Engraving: A significant portion of the course will involve working with binocular microscopes, essential for achieving high levels of detail in small-scale jewelry engraving. Students will learn how to adjust magnification and lighting for different tasks, ensuring they can maintain clarity and control throughout the engraving process.
- Air Tools and Advanced Techniques: The course will also cover the use of air-powered tools, such as those provided by the GRS system. These tools allow for greater speed and precision, especially when working on complex designs or delicate surfaces. Students will practice controlling air pressure and tool speed to achieve various effects, from deep relief engraving to fine text work and shading.
- Advanced Techniques and Practice: As students’ progress, they will explore more advanced engraving methods, including shading, deep relief engraving, and text engraving, using different metals such as copper, brass, and silver. These techniques will be applied to create detailed, custom designs suitable for high-end jewelry pieces.
Throughout this period, the emphasis will be on hands-on practice, allowing students to refine their skills in a real-world workshop environment. By the end of this module, participants will have a comprehensive understanding of how to use both traditional and modern tools to engrave and set stones in a variety of jewelry designs, achieving a professional level of craftsmanship.
Lesson plan
Minimum two weeks for a total of 80 hours, including 56 hours of guided instruction and 24 hours of independent practice. Additional weeks can be added as desired, up to a maximum of 3 months. The lessons are from Monday to Friday. The weekly course schedule includes 16 hours of stone setting and 12 hours of engraving classes. Students can then improve their skills by working independently at their bench till 6.00 pm. The lessons will be conducted in English and Italian.
Booking your seat
Students can book a seat in any period of the year, except for the 3 central weeks of August and the Christmas and Easter holidays. Courses start every Monday. Our commitment to personalized attention ensures a maximum of 6 students per class, therefore we recommend communicating the dates in advance to verify the availability and secure a spot at info@alchimia.it
Jewellery Making
01Jan2026 - 31Dec2026DEADLINE: 31/Dec/2026
Application
Tags: Technics , ProfessionalPractice , Making
Management person: Lucia Massei
Intensive Course (TEC)
Our Intensive Courses are immersive, tailor-made workshops designed for all levels — from complete beginners to experienced makers. With one-on-one coaching and flexible curricula, each program is built around your personal project, interests, and goals.
You can explore a variety of jewellery-making techniques or focus on mastering just one. The pieces you create are yours to keep, making your learning both practical and rewarding.
What makes TEC unique is the personalized attention: a maximum of 8 students ensures dedicated guidance and space for your creativity to flourish.
Courses run year-round, starting every Monday and ending on Friday, with flexible scheduling to suit your availability. Programs range from short introductions to advanced professional training, fully customizable in collaboration with our teachers.
- Duration: 2 weeks to 3 months (extendable for non-EU student visa).
- Start: every Monday, year-round (except mid-August, Christmas and Easter).
- Languages: Italian & English.
- Limited to 8 participants.
Schedule: Mon–Fri, 9:00–13:00 (lessons) + 14:00–18:00 (independent practice).
Weekly total: 20 h of guided teaching + 20 h of practice = 40 h.
Optional: critique session with the instructor.
Facilities & Materials
- Personal bench for the full course.
- School provides basic tools, non-precious metals, semi-precious stones.
- Access to a fully equipped jewellery workshop
- All works remain the property of the student.
* Gold and silver must be purchased by the student.
Booking your seat
Students can book a seat in any period of the year, except for the 3 central weeks of August and the Christmas and Easter holidays.
Please contact us at info@alchimia.it
Bachelor of Fine Arts, Major Contemporary Jewellery
07Sep2026 - 17Jul2028DEADLINE: 12/Jul/2026
Application
Tags: Making , Technics , ProfessionalPractice , CriticalThinking
Management person: Lucia Massei
Alchimia’s two-year BFA in Contemporary Jewellery offers a full introduction to jewellery design and making, even for students with no prior experience. Starting with traditional goldsmithing skills, the program progresses into contemporary approaches, new technologies, and innovative use of materials.
The course is structured into six 14-week modules, combining technical practice, theory, and creative research. Following Alchimia’s philosophy, it merges tradition and innovation, nurturing creativity, confidence, and critical thinking. Each student receives personalized guidance and benefits from study trips in Italy and abroad.
This BFA can stand alone as a complete program or serve as preparation for advanced studies at the master’s level.
Qualification: Bachelor of Fine Arts- private diploma
Duration: 2 years
Tutors: Lucia Massei, Sanaa Khalil
Fees: For more detailed information on fees
Main areas of study
- History of Art
- History of Jewellery
- Gemology
- Goldsmithing & Jewellery Lab (Introductory & Advanced)
- Technology & Advanced Technology
- Drawing & Design (Introductory & Advanced)
- 3D Prototyping
- Creative Strategies & Process Development
- Reflective Analysis & Professional Research
- Independent Professional Practice
- Contemporary Jewellery History
- Thesis
For more detailed information, visit the Website
* Photo credit: Brooch by Kai Ling Hsueh
Master of Fine Arts, Major in Contemporary Jewellery and Cultural Identity
08Sep2026 - 18Jul2027DEADLINE: 30/Jun/2026
Application
Tags: Making , Technics , ProfessionalPractice , CriticalThinking
Management person: Lucia Massei
Alchimia’s MFA in Contemporary Jewellery and Cultural Identity is a two-year program designed to deepen knowledge, refine skills, and foster a strong personal artistic identity within studio-based jewellery design.
The course emphasizes critical engagement with the discipline, encouraging students to develop independent artistic positions while also exploring strategies for marketing, exhibiting, and professional networking.
Through intensive workshops, seminars, and training sessions in Florence, students gain practical and theoretical tools to strengthen their creative practice. A personal tutor follows each student’s development, while collective projects include curating, writing, and producing public events.
Special attention is given to situating one’s work in the contemporary context, with opportunities for critique, debate, and reflection. In the second year, students who remain in Florence benefit from an exclusive workshop space dedicated to MFA candidates.
Tutors : David Clarke and Evert Nijland.
Qualification: Master of Fine Arts, Major in Contemporary Jewellery and Cultural Identity.
Duration: 2 years.
Faculty: Tutor Evert Nijland Lucia Massei, Sanaa Khalil, Benjamin Lignel, Akis Goumas, , , Federico Cavicchioli, Carolina Gestri + Guest teachers.
Fees: More information on fees
Main areas of study:
- Perspectives in Modern & Contemporary Art History
- Advanced Goldsmithing & Technical Jewellery Lab
- Jewellery Photography & Digital Imaging
- Material Experimentation
- Research Methodologies & Processes
- Advanced 3D Digital Design
- Cultural Analysis Through the Arts
- Curating Exhibitions for the Applied Arts
- Visual Communication Development
- Guided Professional Research
- Independent Professional Practice
- Marketing & Web Development
- Thesis
* Photo credit: Installation (Master Solo Show) by Shuang Yue.
Events 
Publications
Transaction MFA II 2018, Work in progress exhibition in Amsterdam, curated by Lucy Sarneel.
© By the author. Read Klimt02.net Copyright.
Necklace: In Conflict, 2016
Wood, leather, iron.
18 x 8 x 8 cm
From series: In Conflict
© By the author. Read Klimt02.net Copyright.
Brooch: Nomen Nescio, 2016
Iron, steel.
12 x 6 x 5 cm
From series: Nomen Nescio
© By the author. Read Klimt02.net Copyright.
Brooch: Look Gently Series No.14, 2018
Paper, silver, stainless steel pin, cold enamel, varnish.
10.3 x 9.6 x 5.6 cm
From series: Look Gently
© By the author. Read Klimt02.net Copyright.
Estimated price: 500 €
Necklace: Controlled Freedom, 2015
Glass, aegirine.
From series: True Lies
© By the author. Read Klimt02.net Copyright.
Ring: Fortezza, 2017
Shibuichi, black coral, silver, melted amber.
5.3 x 3.3 cm
From series: Gimmel
© By the author. Read Klimt02.net Copyright.
Drawing Class at Alchimia Contemporary Jewellery School
© By the author. Read Klimt02.net Copyright.
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