RARE GEMS: THE ART OF GEMSTONE PAINT MAKING

Step inside the studio for a rare, full-day exploration of how real gemstones and minerals become artist-grade watercolor paints.

Working from my collection of more than 37 gemstone pigments, you’ll select your own palette and learn the process of transforming mineral pigment into paint, from traditional grinding and mulling to the chemistry of binders and the behavior of each stone.

Part geology, part chemistry, and part centuries-old paint-making tradition, Rare Gems brings together science, cultural history, material knowledge, and creative practice before putting your newly made colors to work in a guided painting experience.

You’ll leave with your own collection of up to six handcrafted gemstone watercolor paints, formulation guides, and a deeper understanding of the extraordinary materials behind the art.

From gemstone to pigment to paint. Made by you.

AGENDA

10:00–10:30 | WELCOME + A BRIEF HISTORY OF COLOR

Introductions and an exploration of the remarkable history of natural pigments. We’ll look at how artists have transformed minerals, earth, and precious materials into color for centuries, and where gemstone watercolor fits within that tradition today.

10:30–11:00 | FROM ROCK TO PAINT

An introduction to the complete gemstone paint-making process:

Stone → Pigment → Grind → Mull → Bind → Paint

We’ll explore pigment preparation, particle size, binders, tools, formulation, and why different minerals behave so differently as watercolor paints.

11:00–12:30 | THE GEMSTONE LAB

Time to make paint.

Choose your gemstone pigments and work hands-on through the traditional process of mulling and binding your colors. We’ll test, adjust, swatch, and learn to recognize when a paint is truly ready.

12:30–1:00 | LIGHT LUNCH + STUDIO BREAK

A chance to reset, enjoy a light lunch, explore the studio, and talk gemstones, materials, and creative practice.

1:00–2:30 | PAINTING WITH GEMSTONES

Now we put the pigments to work.

A 90-minute guided painting experience exploring the distinctive movement, texture, granulation, luminosity, and personality of gemstone watercolor.

2:30–3:15 | FINISHING YOUR PAINT COLLECTION

Return to the lab to make final adjustments, complete your paints, label your collection, and document your formulations.

3:15–4:00 | STUDIO DISCUSSION + CLOSE

We’ll gather to look at the work, share discoveries, discuss questions about pigment and process, and talk about continuing your own exploration of natural color.

Final packing, studio clean-up, and taking home your handmade gemstone watercolor collection.

MAKE THE PAINT. KNOW THE MATERIAL. CREATE WITH IT.