"Directly across from the studio, a stunning view unfolds: a vibrant rainbow arches gracefully over the Salmo River, set against a dramatic backdrop of lush green mountains and moody, stormy grey skies. It's a breathtaking sight that captures the wild beauty of nature!"
"Directly across from the studio, a stunning view unfolds: a vibrant rainbow arches gracefully over the Salmo River, set against a dramatic backdrop of lush green mountains and moody, stormy grey skies. It's a breathtaking sight that captures the wild beauty of nature!"

EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF METALSMITHING

SAMONTE CRUZ STUDIOS is OPEN- Let’s create together!

Nestled in the breathtaking mountains, the Ymir Studio is a picturesque location providing an inspiring retreat into nature’s beauty, sparking creativity for a variety of jewelry making classes. Here, students of all skill levels—from beginner to advanced—can immerse themselves in the art of metalsmithing and silversmithing through hands-on classes, including beginner fabrication, lost wax casting, ring making, stone setting, and more. The Ymir Studio offers the perfect setting to learn, create, and connect with fellow enthusiasts in a truly beautiful environment. Come experience the magic of metalsmithing!

✨REGISTER ONLINE✨

Need help? Contact Samonte.

Jewelry Making Classes near Nelson, BC

Samonte offers a variety of engaging options at Samonte Cruz Studios, including one-on-one private instruction, custom small group classes, open studio sessions, bench rentals, and “Make Your Own Wedding Ring” workshops for couples—perfect for anyone looking to create something special! Inquire today for more information and rates, and let your jewelry-making journey begin!

✨FULL WORKSHOP SCHEDULE HERE✨

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Samonte Cruz is an award-winning Filipinx goldsmith and interdisciplinary artist with over 20 years of experience in community education. Renowned for their high-quality craftsmanship and innovative design, Samonte invites students from all backgrounds to dive into the exciting world of jewelry-making. With hands-on learning and small classes, Samonte offers personalized guidance for all creatives—from curious crafters to seasoned jewelers—in a fun and inclusive environment. 

Beginner to Advanced Metalsmithing: Step into the creative world of jewelry making at Samonte Cruz Studios, located just 20 minutes from the charming town of Nelson, BC, in the quaint village of Ymir! 

Samonte Cruz Studios_Jewelry Making Classes_November 2024 Metalsmithing Workshops

CELEBRATING TEN YEARS OF CRAFT AND INNOVATION 

In 2025, Samonte will celebrate a decade of dedication to the art of metalsmithing. Their journey began in 2015 at the Kootenay School of the Arts, Selkirk College, located on Sinixt Territory in Nelson, BC, where they graduated with honors in 2017. Shortly afterward, they founded Samonte Cruz Studios, specializing in custom wedding and engagement rings. In 2018, Samonte began teaching beginner jewelry-making courses at Selkirk College and embarked on an apprenticeship with master goldsmith Paul Durkin at Lauener Brothers Jewellery in Trail, BC. Through this apprenticeship, they received specialized training in heirloom jewelry repair and restoration, mastering traditional techniques and utilizing state-of-the-art 3D printing technology to bring precision and innovation to jewelry production.

With a commitment to creating educational opportunities, fostering community connections, and promoting resilience through the arts, Samonte Cruz Studios empowers students to discover their artistic potential and make meaningful work that celebrates their unique journey of creative growth and the joy of artistic exploration!

Samonte was awarded Juror’s Choice for their work featured at the 2023 NYC Jewelry Week Exhibition: Adorned Serenity. Eternal Safe Space: Transcestors Funerary Mask; 22 karat gold, hand-formed, folded & cut; 2023. Read more about the piece here.

HANDMADE ON SINIXT TERRITORY
All my work is created using traditional gold-smithing techniques, in combination with state of the art technology in 3D printing and the ancient method of lost wax casting. I love my life and feel extremely grateful to be living and working on unceded Sinixt Territory (Nelson, BC).