Create your original cuttlefish bone cast jewelry.

Unlock the Art of Ancient Jewelry Making in Florence

The “Create your original cuttlefish bone cast jewelry” tour offers a unique opportunity to craft your own silver pendant or ring using an ancient technique known since Egyptian times. With a price of $322.67 per person, this 4-hour experience takes place in a cozy workshop just 10 minutes walk from Florence’s Santa Maria Novella station. Limited to 3 participants, it ensures personalized attention and a relaxed environment. The tour is perfect for art lovers, jewelry enthusiasts, or anyone curious about historical craft methods, all without requiring any prior skills.

This workshop is led by Federico Vianello, a Master of Art appointed by the Tuscany government in 2013. Federico’s passion for jewelry and storytelling shines through as he guides participants through each step of the process, sharing stories about the 2,000-year-old Egyptian technique. The highlights include carving the cuttlefish bone mold, pouring melted silver, and immediately seeing your custom piece take shape. The experience concludes with a social gathering in a nearby garden bar, where you’ll enjoy an aperitif and discuss finishing touches with Federico.

Key Points

• Create personalized jewelry using ancient cuttlefish bone casting.
• Workshop lasts approximately 4 hours in a small, intimate group.
• Price includes silver (20 grams) and assistance with finishing your piece.
• No prior experience needed; the process is straightforward and guided.
• Limited to 3 participants for a personalized learning experience.
• Finished jewelry can be picked up the same evening at the workshop.

Discover the Workshop Location and Setup

The workshop starts at Microfficina Gioielli Artigianali on Via S. Zanobi, 94 R in Florence. It’s a small creative space where Federico Vianello shares his expertise, surrounded by jewelry-making tools and art supplies. The location is easy to reach, being just 10 minutes walk from the Santa Maria Novella railway station.

Participants meet in the workshop, which has an inviting and relaxed atmosphere ideal for beginners. The environment encourages individual creativity, with Federico providing step-by-step guidance. The setup allows each person to carve their own custom mold from the cuttlefish bone, which is known for being easy to carve and long-lasting.

The Magic of Cuttlefish Bone Casting Technique

This workshop employs a technique dating back over 2,000 years to ancient Egypt, still admired for its simplicity and charm. The cuttlefish bone serves as the mold for your jewelry, and Federico demonstrates how to carve intricate shapes or personalise your design.

After the carving process, Federico pours melted silver into your mold, which results in a rough but clearly recognizable piece of jewelry. The silver used weighs 20 grams, enough for a pendant or ring, and the process takes just a few moments. The immediate casting allows you to see your creation take shape right in front of your eyes.

How to Personalize Your Jewelry Design

Participants choose their preferred model from a list of proposed designs, allowing for some creative flexibility. Federico offers individual assistance to help refine your carve and ensure the final shape is both beautiful and wearable. This customization makes each piece truly personalized, reflecting your style or inspiration.

Once the casting is complete, you will have the option to discuss finishing touches during the post-casting aperitif in a nearby garden bar. Federico will help you decide whether to leave the piece as-is or make further adjustments at a later time. The jewel can be collected the same evening, ready to wear or gift.

What’s Included and What You Need to Know About Extras

The included silver (20 grams) covers the cost of the casting process, and Federico handles any additional finishing work needed to polish your piece. The tour includes an aperitif at the end of the session, providing a relaxed setting for conversation and inspiration sharing.

Gems or additional shipping costs are not included, and any shipping fees will be paid separately if you choose to send your jewelry elsewhere. Shipping costs start at 10 euros within Italy, 20 euros across Europe, and 50 euros for other countries.

Group Size and Booking Details

This tour keeps things intimate with a maximum of 3 participants, ensuring personalized attention from Federico. The experience is booked on average 26 days in advance, so planning ahead ensures a spot in this highly praised workshop.

The booking process is straightforward, and the tour offers mobile tickets for convenience. It is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed, and is held in a friendly, informal setting.

The Experience of Federico Vianello

Federico Vianello’s expertise as a master jeweler shines through his teaching style. Reviewers praise his genuine, kind, and supportive manner, noting how he encourages creativity while sharing fascinating stories about the history of cuttlefish bone casting.

His approach makes the process accessible and enjoyable, even for complete beginners. The post-casting aperitif is highlighted as a unique social moment where Federico offers insights and stories, making the experience not just about jewelry but about sharing culture and passion.

Physical and Practical Considerations

Participants should wear comfortable, informal clothes, as carving and pouring silver can involve some mess. The workshop is designed to be accessible, with no special skills or prior knowledge required. The entire session lasts about 4 hours, making it a manageable and rewarding activity.

Since most of the work is done seated at the workspace, it’s suitable for people with average mobility. Federico provides all necessary tools and guidance, ensuring everyone can follow along comfortably.

The Unique Appeal of This Jewelry-Making Experience

What makes this tour stand out is its blend of history, craftsmanship, and personal creativity. The ancient Egyptian technique makes each jewelry piece a meaningful souvenir, and the personalization aspect ensures that every pendant or ring is one-of-a-kind.

The small group setting fosters close interaction with Federico, making it feel like a private class rather than a generic workshop. The immediate visual result of the rough silver jewel creates a satisfying sense of achievement.

Who Will Most Appreciate This Workshop?

This experience is ideal for art enthusiasts, history buffs, or jewelry lovers eager to try a hands-on craft with deep roots in history. It’s also well-suited for those who enjoy creative activities in a relaxed environment.

While no prior experience is needed, participants should be prepared to engage actively in carving and pouring silver. The limited group size makes it particularly appealing for those who prefer personalized attention and a more intimate setting.

Final Thoughts on the Cuttlefish Bone Jewelry Workshop

This workshop offers a rare chance to create a custom piece of jewelry with a historical technique in the heart of Florence. The $322.67 fee covers all necessary materials, expert guidance, and a social aperitif afterward. The 4-hour duration makes it a rewarding yet manageable activity for a half-day.

While the process requires some manual work and creativity, the friendly approach of Federico ensures everyone feels supported. The immediate casting means you’ll leave with a unique silver piece that embodies both craftsmanship and personal expression.

If you’re seeking a meaningful, culturally rich experience that results in a tangible keepsake, this jewelry workshop delivers in both education and enjoyment. It’s a bright choice for those who want to learn, create, and connect in Florence’s vibrant artistic scene.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is prior jewelry-making experience needed?
No, this workshop is designed for complete beginners and does not require any prior skills.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers silver (20 grams), instruction, and final finishing of your jewelry.

Can I customize my design?
Yes, you can choose from proposed models and work with Federico to create a personalized shape.

When can I collect my finished jewelry?
You can pick up your jewelry the same evening at the workshop.

Are there additional costs for shipping?
Yes, shipping costs are separate, starting at 10 euros within Italy, 20 euros in Europe, and 50 euros for other countries.

What should I wear?
Comfortable informal clothes are recommended due to the nature of carving and working with silver.

How many people are in the group?
The workshop is limited to 3 participants for a highly personal experience.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the workshop accessible for most travelers?
Yes, it is suitable for most, with service animals allowed and an easy-to-reach location near public transportation.