I have been studying jewelry for the past four (4) years. Started with the Diamond & Diamond Grading course, then pearl & bead stringing through the GIA. I took Kate Wolf's class in wax carving, a one week course in bench jewelry level 1. The most recent class I took was the eight week course at New Approach, for Jewelry Technician. I have recently starting working for an independent jewelry store as there bench jeweler. I absolutely love it. Already, signed up for another class, offered by the GIA, Quick Design. There's so much to learn and my passion runs so deep, that it's often overwhelming. Orchid is the best site available and has been a wonderful resource, and learning tool. thank you so much!! Cindy St.Germain