
DAYTIME PROGRAM
PRIOR KNOWLEDGE
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Open to all, no professional prerequisites needed.
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Passion, precision, patience, humility, discretion.
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An interview to better understand your goals and motivations.
WHO IS IT FOR?
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Whether you are looking for a career change or simply wish to discover a fine craft within the world of luxury.
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Independent jewelers join us to learn and perfect their gem-setting expertise.
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They entrust us with training and advancing the expertise of their setters, quality inspectors, and jewelers.
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They see us as a genuine opportunity for career transition.
TRAINING MODULES
Daytime classes take place from Monday to Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
FULL MODULE
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Objectives:
Learn to name the different tools
Acquire various modern gem-setting techniques
Become familiar with the GraverMax and the laser
Use the appropriate tools
Learn how to read a technical plan
Optimize work organization
Understand Quality standards
Ensure self-checking and quality control
Theoretical courses:
Gemology: approx. 10 hours
Precious metals: approx. 2 hours
Tools: approx. 1 hour
Laser: approx. 1 hour
Program:
3 months and 3 weeks of full-day training, for a total of approx. 460 hours.
Course content / training progression
The program begins with the Bead Setting Module, during which participants become familiar with handling the tools, stone placement, and pastillage, before practicing bead setting and its different variations, then moving on to more advanced techniques such as cut-down setting and snow setting.
The training continues with the Claw and Closed Setting Module, covering claw settings on various types of settings (round, princess cut, marquise, pear, oval, heart), as well as closed settings for cabochons and faceted stones in multiple shapes (round, square, triangular, pear, oval, heart).
Next comes the Baguette Setting Module, where participants learn baguette setting for different shapes, both directly into the metal and on jewelry or watch bezels.
The training concludes with a consolidation phase, including a mock exam week, targeted improvement sessions to address any gaps, and finally the final exam to validate the acquired skills.
Additional information
Tools:
Basic tools are provided on loan by the school. Participants will receive guidance for any potential purchase of personal tools.Practice pieces:
Jewelry pieces in silver, exercises on brass plates, and cubic zirconia stones are provided by the school.Assessment:
At the end of the program, skills are validated through a final evaluation on a piece that incorporates all the techniques learned during the different modules.
BEAD & PAVÉ MODULE
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Objectives:
Learn to identify the different tools
Use the appropriate equipment
Acquire various modern gem-setting techniques
Optimize work organization
Become familiar with the GraverMax and the laser
Learn how to read a technical plan
Understand Quality standards
Ensure self-checking and quality control
Theoretical course:
Gemology: approx. 1 hour
Program / Training flow – 30 hours
This introductory module allows participants to discover the technique of bead setting and to understand the essential steps required for proper preparation. Throughout the training, they will work on handling the tools, stone placement, and the Emlo pastillage process. Depending on their progress, they may also practice simple variations of bead setting, in order to build solid foundations for the continuation of their learning.
Additional information
Equipment:
Basic tools are provided on loan by the school.Practice pieces:
Jewelry pieces in silver, exercises on brass plates, and cubic zirconia stones are provided by the school.Assessment:
A certificate of course completion will be awarded to participants who complete the full training.Participants will leave with the exercises they completed.
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Objectives:
Learn to identify the different tools
Use the appropriate equipment
Acquire various modern gem-setting techniques
Optimize work organization
Become familiar with the GraverMax and the laser
Learn how to read a technical plan
Understand Quality standards
Ensure self-checking and quality control
Theoretical courses:
Gemology: approx. 3 hours
Tools and metals: approx. 2 hours
Laser: approx. 1 hour
Program / Training flow – 120 hours
This program offers a complete progression, from handling the tools to mastering the preparation techniques. Participants begin with bead setting, followed by stone placement and the Emlo pastillage process. The training continues with snow setting and in-depth practice of bead setting techniques (2 beads, 4 beads, 5 beads, pavé, etc.), before moving on to more advanced methods such as cut-down setting.
Additional information
Equipment:
Basic tools are provided on loan by the school.Practice pieces:
Jewelry pieces in silver, exercises on brass plates, and cubic zirconia stones are provided by the school.Assessment:
A certificate of course completion will be awarded to participants who complete the full training.Participants will leave with the exercises they completed.
BAGUETTE MODULE
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Objectives:
Learn to identify the different tools
Use the appropriate equipment
Acquire the technique of baguette setting
Optimize work organization
Become familiar with the GraverMax and the laser
Learn how to read a technical plan
Understand Quality standards
Ensure self-checking and quality control
Theoretical course:
Gemology: approx. 1 hour
Program / Training flow – 30 hours
In this introductory course, you will be introduced to the fundamentals of baguette setting through various practical exercises in adjustment and setting. The goal is to help you become familiar with the essential techniques and skills that will enable you to gain an initial mastery of this demanding craft.
The school offers personalized courses tailored to the level and pace of each student. This customized approach ensures attentive guidance, supporting steady progress from the very first steps of your learning journey.
Additional information
Equipment:
Basic tools are provided on loan by the school.Practice pieces:
Jewelry and watch bezel pieces in silver, as well as cubic zirconia stones, are provided by the school.Assessment:
A certificate of course completion will be awarded to participants who attend the full training.Participants will leave with the exercises they completed.
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Objectives:
Learn to identify the different tools
Use the appropriate equipment
Acquire the technique of baguette setting
Optimize work organization
Become familiar with the GraverMax and the laser
Learn how to read a technical plan
Understand Quality standards
Ensure self-checking and quality control
Theoretical courses:
Gemology: approx. 3 hours
Tools and precious metals: approx. 2 hours
Laser: approx. 1 hour
Program / Training flow – 120 hours
During this training, you will learn and practice various adjustment and baguette-setting exercises, ranging from technical basics to more advanced applications. The objective is to help you gradually build solid mastery of these essential skills.
The school places great importance on offering personalized courses, tailored to each student’s pace, level, and specific needs. This customized approach ensures optimal guidance and promotes effective and lasting progress.
Additional information
Equipment:
Basic tools are provided on loan by the school.Practice pieces:
Jewelry and watch bezel pieces in silver, as well as cubic zirconia stones, are provided by the school.Assessment:
A certificate of course completion will be awarded to participants who complete the entire training.Participants will leave with the exercises they completed.
INVISIBLE MODULE
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Objectives:
Learn to identify the different tools
Use the appropriate equipment
Acquire the technique of invisible setting
Become familiar with the GraverMax and the laser
Understand Quality standards
Ensure self-checking and quality control
Program / Training flow
In this training, you will be immersed in one of the most fascinating and complex techniques: invisible setting. Step by step, you will discover the subtleties of this exceptional craftsmanship and learn to develop the precision, discipline, and finesse required to master it.
The training is fully adapted to each student’s level, allowing everyone to progress at their own pace. Throughout the week, you will carry out a series of invisible-setting exercises of increasing difficulty, designed to strengthen your skills and guide you towards greater mastery of this demanding technique.
Additional information
Equipment:
Basic tools are provided on loan by the school.
Participants will receive guidance for any potential purchase of personal tools.Practice pieces:
Jewelry pieces in silver and cubic zirconia stones are provided by the school.Assessment:
A certificate of course completion will be awarded to participants who complete the full training.Participants will leave with the exercises they completed.
CLAW & CLOSED MODULE
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Objectives:
Learn to identify the different tools
Use the appropriate equipment
Acquire various modern gem-setting techniques
Optimize work organization
Become familiar with the GraverMax and the laser
Learn how to read a technical plan
Understand Quality standards
Ensure self-checking and quality control
Theoretical course:
Gemology: approx. 1 hour
Program / Training flow – 30 hours
The 30-hour introductory training begins with the discovery of closed setting, applied to both cabochons and faceted stones, in order to establish the essential foundations of the craft. It then moves on to claw setting with brilliant cuts, while gradually introducing more varied stone shapes. This approach provides participants with an initial mastery of fundamental techniques, while developing precision and confidence for the continuation of their learning journey.
Additional information
Equipment:
Basic tools are provided on loan by the school.Practice pieces:
Jewelry pieces in silver, as well as cubic zirconia stones, are provided by the school.Assessment:
A certificate of course completion will be awarded to participants who complete the full training.Participants will leave with the exercises they completed.
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Objectives:
Learn to identify the different tools
Use the appropriate equipment
Acquire various modern gem-setting techniques
Optimize work organization
Become familiar with the GraverMax and the laser
Learn how to read a technical plan
Understand Quality standards
Ensure self-checking and quality control
Theoretical courses:
Gemology: approx. 3 hours
Tools and precious metals: approx. 2 hours
Laser: approx. 1 hour
Program / Training flow – 120 hours
The training begins with the study of closed setting, applied to both cabochons and faceted stones, in order to establish a solid foundation. It then moves on to claw setting, starting with brilliant cuts, and gradually progressing to more varied shapes such as princess or marquise. Finally, the last stages are dedicated to the setting of more complex shapes such as heart, oval, and pear, to further develop finesse, creativity, and technical mastery.
Additional information
Equipment:
Basic tools are provided on loan by the school.Practice pieces:
Jewelry pieces in silver, as well as cubic zirconia stones, are provided by the school.Assessment:
A certificate of course completion will be awarded to participants who complete the entire training.Participants will leave with the exercises they completed.
FLEXIBLE MODULE
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Would you like to learn gem-setting techniques, simply discover this fascinating craft while leaving with your own set jewelry, or improve your skills in this field? We are here to listen to your specific wishes.
Our team brings together its full expertise and draws from a wide range of traditional and innovative techniques to teach and guide students throughout their learning journey. Creative inspiration, technical precision, and challenges form the common ground of our instructors.
Program: À la carte
Course content / flow:
The course is tailored to the student’s level.Start dates: Subject to availability
Equipment:
Basic tools are provided on loan by the school.Practice pieces:
Silver jewelry pieces, exercises on copper and brass plates, as well as cubic zirconia stones, are provided by the school.
INTRODUCTORY SESSIONS
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Objectives:
Learn to identify the different tools
Introduction to various modern gem-setting techniques
Become familiar with the GraverMax
Use the appropriate equipment
Understand Quality standards
Ensure self-checking and quality control
Program: 18 hours of training over 3 days
This program is designed to immerse you directly into the world of gem-setting and to introduce you to all the key steps of the craft.
Throughout the training, you will explore the main types of settings, the essential tools, and the different stone cuts. You will practice the importance of metal lowering in bezel setting while discovering the similar principles used in baguette setting.
You will also work on bead setting, a fundamental technique for understanding the precision and discipline required at each stage.
Through progressive and practical exercises, you will develop dexterity as well as an initial global understanding of the art of gem-setting. An immersive and enriching experience to better discover this fascinating profession!
Theoretical courses included:
Gemology: approx. 1 hour
Introduction to gem-setting: approx. 2 hours
Equipment:
Basic tools are provided on loan by the school. Printed course materials are supplied to each student.Practice pieces:
Silver jewelry pieces, exercises on copper plates, as well as cubic zirconia stones are provided by the school.Assessment:
A certificate of course completion will be awarded to participants who complete the full training. Participants will leave with the exercises they completed.
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Objectives:
Learn to identify the different tools
Introduction to various modern gem-setting techniques
Become familiar with the GraverMax
Use the appropriate equipment
Understand Quality standards
Ensure self-checking and quality control
Program: 18 hours of training over 3 days
This program has been designed to immerse you in the profession of gem-setting and introduce you to all the essential steps of the craft, with a particular focus on the quality standards expected in the industry.
Throughout the training, you will learn to recognize and apply the indispensable quality standards: precision of movement, consistency, cleanliness of work, and attention to finishing. You will explore the different types of setting, the key tools, and the various stone cuts.
Practical exercises will emphasize metal lowering for bezel setting and its similar principles in baguette setting. You will also practice bead setting to understand the importance of each step and to measure the direct impact of execution quality on the final result.
Through concrete and progressive exercises, you will develop not only your technical skills but also the discipline and critical eye necessary to meet the standards of excellence in the trade.
Theoretical courses included:
Gemology: approx. 1 hour
Introduction to gem-setting and quality standards: approx. 2 hours
Equipment:
Basic tools are provided on loan by the school. Printed course materials are supplied to each student.Practice pieces:
Silver jewelry pieces, exercises on copper plates, as well as cubic zirconia stones, are provided by the school.Assessment:
A certificate of course completion will be awarded to participants who complete the full training. Participants will leave with the exercises they completed.
INCLUDED WITH OUR DAYTIME SESSIONS
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During the training, ESDS provides you with:
A fully equipped setter’s bench, including a binocular microscope and a GraverMax engraving machine
Practice pieces
Printed course materials
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Considering the importance of understanding the materials a gem-setter works with, we have included a gemology course in the program of all our one-month modules or full-time daytime trainings.
The following topics are covered:
Gems in nature and their origins
Elements of mineral chemistry
Physical properties of minerals
Diamonds, corundum, beryl, topaz, garnet, quartz, spinel, opal, and zircon
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Laser technology is now integrated into all our gem-setting programs!
This revolutionary tool opens new possibilities and redefines the standards of precision and creativity in the field of gem-setting.Why adopt laser technology in gem-setting?
Advanced techniques: Learn the basics and refine your expertise with this essential tool.
Increased autonomy: Work with confidence and achieve flawless results.
Optimal performance: Combine speed and precision, whether for delicate repairs or complex creations.
With the laser, you will be able to:
Repair a claw quickly and precisely.
Remove and replace a baguette with ease.
Recreate a perfect “T” for invisible setting, a demanding technique that requires unmatched precision.
What this means for you:
This module offers hands-on training tailored to the current challenges of the profession. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced professional, the laser becomes your indispensable ally in pushing the boundaries of your creations. -
We provide you with a course certificate from our School.
This certificate is widely recognized for its excellence within the professional fields of Swiss fine watchmaking and jewelry, thanks to the expertise of our instructors and our hands-on teaching approach.
*Laser training: is included in all programs, except for introductory sessions.
ESDS - Ecole Suisse de Sertissage Sàrl
Route des Avouillons 14
CH-1196 Gland
Tél: +41 (0)22 335 37 35
Email: contact@esds.ch
Monday to Friday
08:30 - 12:00
13:30 - 17:30
Schedules:
Access:
Train: CFF Gland Railway station: 10min by feet
Certification: