Alexander Sidorov

GMP Instructor 2012, 2009

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Innovative Techniques for World Class Stone Setting

2012 Course Information

July 30 – August 10

(This course is for experienced setters.)

This course is a valuable blend of setting techniques by Alexander. It includes his innovative multiple stone pavé for round stones 1.1 to 2.0 mm. Sidorov will also reveal unique single stone settings for 3 to 5 mm stones. Because many of his techniques depend on special tools, Alexander will teach students how to make them and where to get them. In addition, Sidorov has planned time for the attendees to actually choose part of the curriculum. He promises to share any of his techniques, as requested by consensus.

Attendees are not expected to be expert setters, but Alexander requires the use of a GraverMax or GraverMach. Without power assist, hand setters will be unable to execute all of his special techniques. Alexander knows this from experience because he was a hand setter for many years.

Each person will have their own bench for all 10 class days, and all tools will be provided.

Learning Objectives

How to lay out multiple stone settings
Setting techniques that are faster, safer, and more attractive
Secure pavé setting with two beads per stone
Advanced pavé using more than two beads per stone
New ways to use power handpieces
Working on flat, concave, and convex surfaces
Secret techniques from around the world
Time-saving ways to use rotary burs
Bright-cut work with fewer graver cuts
Beading tool use, selection, and maintenance
How to price high-end stone setting to clients
When and how to use carbide burs and gravers
Setting in tough metals including stainless steel watches
Making special tools

Biography

The mastery of Alexander Sidorov is an extraordinary blend of unequaled technical expertise with beautiful, creative artistry. Born in Kherson, Ukraine, Alexander’s heritage provided an important career foundation.

His early trade experience included two years with the Russian military’s demanding bureau of high precision micro-stamp engraving. This work required microscopically perfect handwork executed in a variety of tough metals.

Following this, Sidorov studied in a jewelry “atelier”, a special artist’s studio, where he learned extensive goldsmithing skills. This formal education combined with rigorous self-study prepared him to develop his own creative setting methods executed at a level of practical perfection.

In 1994, Alexander left the Ukraine for Antwerp, Belgium, the world’s diamond center. He worked in a private shop where he enjoyed the freedom to experiment and create exquisite high-end jewelry.

During the next six years, Sidorov’s special techniques evolved even further. His methods of setting stones with absolute precision, remarkable speed and exceptional efficiency were in such demand that he started his own training program to teach them.

Today, teaching and helping others become a high level successful stone setter is his passion. The effect on students is life-altering, providing them with world-class bench skills they never dreamed possible.

This is a rare opportunity for jewelers and stone setters to learn from a very remarkable man. The career of each attendee will be enriched forever in just two weeks. We wish there was room for more people.