Hidden Gems

09/02/2026

08/31/2026

My friends Don & June will be there. Go by and see them...

08/31/2026

Need ideas for handcrafted ornament 2026! Please send photos.

08/31/2026

Date: Sept. 5th, 2026
Time: 1:00-4:00pm
Place: CottingTree Beads
208 N 14th St
Herrin, IL 62948
Cost: $12.50 + Supplies

Class: ’The Black Pearl’ Chandelier Earrings

Handcrafted with 14ga sterling silver square wire, these elegant earrings feature two 6mm fancy sterling silver jump rings and delicate beads suspended on sterling headpins. If You want to go a step further, adding a 5mm bezel cup and cabs to the center will really make them sparkle.

08/11/2026

Intro To Bezel Setting Large Cabs & Bails

Michelle Graville Artist of Hidden Gems By Michelle

This class is an introduction to silversmithing where you will learn how to turn a large cabochon into a finished pendant using bezel wire, sterling silver sheet, embellishment wire, a bail, and silver solder. All supplies will be available to purchase on the day of class, and all tools are provided. By the end of class, you will understand the basic soldering process behind a piece you can proudly wear or gift away.

This is the first piece I ever made, and once you learn these basic steps, you will be able to create more elaborate pieces. You can use the process again and again with different stones, shapes, and designs.



Date: Aug. 15th., 2026

Time: 1-4:00 PM

Place: CottingTree Beads

208 N 14th St

Herrin, IL 62948

(618)988-2389

Supplies Needed:

(1) Lg Cabochon

3/16 fine silver bezel wire

22-24ga sterling silver sheet for backplate

16-18ga round sterling silver wire for embellishments

1x1” sterling silver 24-22ga sheet for the bail

Hard, medium and easy silver solder paste

07/03/2026

Look at the Beautiful purse charm I made using strawberry and rose quartz today at CottingTree Beads!

06/26/2026

Important Reminder: Metalsmithing class will be held on Saturday, 6/27/26, from 9:00am-12:00pm. CottingTree Beads
208 North 14th Street
Herrin, IL 62948
(618)988-2389
Cost: $12.50 + supplies
Project: The Sheet Ring