Best Practices

Best Practices is possibly the most critical aspect of the Evaluation Criteria scores, this reflects the quality of craftsmanship expected on every challenge submission, whether it is wearable, functional, or decorative.

Craftsmanship

  • Consistent attention has been paid to the finish applied to all surfaces including backs, sides, and edges.
  • Metal clay embellishments such as molded elements, gem settings, etc. are free of cracks, scars, and chips.
  • Joins are clean with no excess slip, paste, lump clay ‘crumbs’, solder overflow, etc.
  • Gemstones, glass, and other implanted embellishments have been cleaned and groomed.

Functionality

  • All elements of the work are strong enough to withstand the stress of everyday wear and/or use. i.e.: The weight, length, gauge, and balance of prongs, dangling elements, and appliques have been appropriately considered.
  • Gem or found object settings are well designed and secure.
  • Separate parts have been joined well with durability in mind.
  • Work is functionally and/or mechanically sound.

Wearability (of jewelry)

  • Bails are attached in a position that allows the piece to hang properly.
  • Ring edges have been rounded to make them more comfortable as they slide down the finger.
  • Attachments like brooch pins and connectors are thoughtfully placed so that jewelry doesn’t hang incorrectly or twist as it is worn.
  • Wire elements such as prongs, brooch pin tips or handmade earring posts have been lightly rounded so they don’t damage clothing, etc.

Challenge Submission Forms

  • All information required has been supplied.
  • Photos are well lit and in focus (submission quality beauty shots are not necessary).

Originality and Design

  • While individual techniques are universal, specific projects learned in a class should not be replicated for submission in this program.
  • If a complete design is required (like the full necklace in 3.2 – Bezel Set Cab), the entire piece will be evaluated. If a complete design isn’t specifically required (like 2.4 – Triangular Bead), but you choose to  submit a fully finished item, the added details may be included in the evaluation critique, but will not be considered as part of your final score.