Mastering Observation: The Art of Conscious Seeing in Jewellery
Category: Jewellery Observation: Seeing Beyond the Surface
Introduction
Jewellery reveals more than meets the eye—if you know how to look. The Introduction course is designed to sharpen perception and train participants to observe details with absolute precision—free from assumption or interpretation.
This hands-on one-day workshop teaches participants how to use a loupe effectively, analyse stamps and identifying marks in jewellery, and document visual details accurately. They will learn a structured approach to observation, similar to the classic drawing grid method, where each element is examined objectively before forming conclusions.
Through structured exercises, participants will sharpen their ability to detect hidden details, correctly interpret maker’s marks, stamps, and other identifying symbols, and uncover subtle irregularities that might otherwise go unnoticed.
By the end of the day, participants will have developed a deeper, more analytical way of looking at jewellery—an essential skill for jewellers, appraisers, collectors, and professionals working with fine and antique jewellery.
Course Details
- Duration: 1 day
- Languages: English and Dutch
Requirements:
- No prior knowledge required, although participants with experience in jewellery or related fields will greatly benefit.
- Active participation is essential due to the hands-on nature of the course.
- For in-person sessions at Adin Academy, participants should be comfortable with stair access.
Who Should Attend
- HRD Antwerp alumni
- Jewellery appraisers
- Jewellers
- Jewellery designers
- Diamond and jewellery lovers
- Sales managers
- Buyers
- Jewellery store personnel
- Museum and heritage professionals
- Auction house specialists
- Members of hallmarking and certification institutes
- Private collectors
- Restorers and goldsmiths
- Art historians
- Students in jewellery studies
- Art history teachers and lecturers
Key Course Topics
- Developing observational accuracy – Training the eye to see without assumption.
- Using a loupe correctly – Hand positioning, focus, and keeping both eyes open, while maintaining comfort whether seated or standing, and adjusting for optimal lighting conditions.
- Understanding and identifying jewellery marks – Learning to recognise and document stamps, maker’s marks, assay marks, and other identifying symbols, understanding their variations, and interpreting their meaning for authentication and historical context.
- Systematic visual documentation – Accurately recording details without subjective interpretation.
- Training perception through structured exercises – Using a mental ‘grid’ to break down complex details.
- Recognising authentic vs. altered pieces – Identifying inconsistencies and potential modifications.
- Interpreting missing or unclear jewellery marks – Understanding what the absence or partial presence of marks may indicate.
- Practical exercises with real objects – Applying learned techniques on a variety of pieces to refine observation skills and analyse identifying marks.
- Understanding material aging and wear patterns – Examining how metals, gemstones, and settings change over time, identifying natural patina versus artificial aging, and recognising signs of repairs, alterations, or interventions made throughout an object’s lifetime. Just as handwriting reflects the era of its writer, craftsmanship carries a subtle “signature of its time”—through distinctive techniques, material choices, and construction methods that can offer clues about when, and sometimes where, a piece was made.
Examination & Certificate
Examination
- No formal examination.
- Participants receive a structured reference guide for note-taking and reminders.
- Final discussion and Q&A session.
- Progress Exercise: At the beginning of the course, participants document an object
based on their initial observations. At the end, they revisit the same object and refine
their analysis, reflecting on their improved observational skills.
Certificate
- Type: Certificate of Participation
- Statement on the certificate:
“This certifies that [Name] has successfully participated in the Mastering Observation: The Art of Conscious Seeing in Jewellery workshop, developing advanced observational skills, critical analysis of identifying marks, and a structured approach to jewellery examination.” - Endorsement:
“The Adin Academy is officially certified as a professional education provider by HRD Antwerp.” - Signed by course instructor or Adin Academy representative
Course Schedule & Pricing
- Standard rate: €295 (excl. VAT) per participant
- Internal exclusive group bookings: For organisations or private groups, an exclusive session can be arranged for €2,000 (excl. VAT), accommodating up to 8 participants.
- External sessions: For training sessions at external locations, pricing is determined based on travel distance and group size. Please contact us for a tailored quote.
- Dates: To be confirmed at the time of email submission.
- Course hours:
- Doors open: 10:00 AM
- Course starts: 10:30 AM
- Ends: 16:00 PM (Due to the intensive nature of this training, the session concludes at 16:00 PM, ensuring participants have the mental clarity needed for precision observation.)
- Includes: Two short breaks (15 min each) and a 30-minute lunch break (lunch not included).
- Additional value: All participants receive a structured reference guide for note-taking, along with hands-on practice using real objects.
- Custom & Corporate Training: For corporate training or custom sessions, content and scheduling can be adapted to specific needs.
Location
- Adin Academy
- Address: Vestingstraat 16, B-2018 Antwerp, Belgium
- Located in the heart of Antwerp’s historic diamond district, just a short walk from Antwerp Central Station.
- Easily accessible by tram, bus, and train.
- The venue provides an ideal setting for focused training, ensuring a professional learning experience.
- Paid parking is available at three parking garages within walking distance on Vestingstraat.
- Several sandwich shops nearby for a quick lunch during the break.