At clubrooms in Galvin Street just outside of the Bendigo CBD, you can get a masterclass in faceting a gemstone.
The Bendigo Gem Club has been in operation for more than 40 years and boasts among its members the current president of the Australian Faceters' Guild, Reg Hall.
Become a club member, and you could learn from Mr Hall.
More than faceting, the club also has the know how, equipment and facilities to teach jewellery making, silversmithing, casting and cabbing -- and its instructors are from all backgrounds found in the community.
The club's annual Gem and Mineral Expo has demonstrations of pastimes that have become hugely popular in recent years in the Victorian Goldfields.
If you are interested in metal detecting, gold panning and fossicking, a visit to the Expo in September should be on your calendar.
President Helen Rothacker says the club is eager to welcome new members.
Clubrooms are open twice during the week and regular open days are held on weekends.
Go to www.gembendigo.org.au for more information.
Check out cabbing and faceting in action at the Galvin Street clubrooms on Connect Greater Bendigo's Facebook page.
Updated
Apr 19, 2024