Intaglio Arts
Custom Intaglios and Lapidary Courses

Live Online Essex Crystal & Gemstone Carving Classes

Learn Essex Crystal — the art of reverse intaglio carving and painting on gemstones. Live Zoom sessions with direct instructor feedback, small groups, all skill levels.

🎥 Live via Zoom 👥 Max 10 Students 🌍 All Timezones Welcome ✋ Beginner to Advanced
What is Essex Crystal? Essex Crystal is the 19th-century name for reverse intaglio — a technique where a design is carved into the back of a transparent gemstone, then painted from behind. Viewed through the polished front, the image appears encased within the stone with extraordinary depth and luminosity. Our live classes teach both the carving and the Essex Crystal painting finish.

Choose Your Class

All classes are live, instructor-led, and limited to 10 students for personalized attention.

Beginner Intaglio Carving
Beginner

Beginner Intaglio Carving

Join our instructor-led, three-session course on gemstone carving. Learn stone selection, essential tools, and carving techniques. Build your skills with live guidance, helping you confidently create designs. Class size limited to ten participants. More Info →

$449.00

📅 Upcoming Sessions

August 25, 2026 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM EST  ·  3 sessions  ·  Weekly on Tuesday

🎬 Preview: Beginner Class

Enroll Now — $449.00
Intermediate Intaglio Carving
Intermediate

Intermediate Intaglio Carving

Advance your gemstone carving skills in our five-session course. Carve a realistic intaglio lion with live guidance. Explore advanced techniques in design and carving. Experience recommended but not required. Class size limited to ten participants. More Info →

$579.00

📅 Upcoming Sessions

September 8, 2026 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM EST  ·  5 sessions  ·  Weekly on Tuesday

🎬 Preview: Intermediate Class

Enroll Now — $579.00
Advanced Intaglio Carving
Advanced

Advanced Intaglio Carving

Elevate your intaglio carving with our advanced seven session course. Focus on lifelike portraits. Designed for experienced carvers, Prior carving experience required Class size limited to ten participants. More Info →

$679.00

📅 Upcoming Sessions

October 13, 2026 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM EST  ·  7 sessions  ·  Weekly on Tuesday

🎬 Preview: Advanced Class

Enroll Now — $679.00
Reverse Intaglio Painting
Painting

Reverse Intaglio Painting

This course teaches students the techniques of painting reverse intaglio carvings. Students will explore the method used to paint on the reverse carved surfaces of intaglios. This enables students to enhance their creations with painted details. More Info →

$149.00

📅 Upcoming Sessions

September 26, 2026 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM EST  ·  1 sessions  ·  Weekly on Saturday

🎬 Preview: Painting Class

Enroll Now — $149.00

Common Questions

Do I need any experience to join?

The Beginner class requires no prior carving experience — just basic tools and willingness to learn. Intermediate and Advanced classes require prior carving experience.

What tools do I need?

A rotary tool (minimum 22,000 RPM), diamond bits, safety glasses, a dust mask, and a bowl of water. Full tool lists are provided after enrollment. Download our free tool guide for a complete shopping list.

How do the live Zoom classes work?

Sessions run via Zoom. You carve in real time while the instructor demonstrates, answers questions, and gives direct feedback on your work. Class size is limited to 10 students to ensure personal attention.

What timezone are the classes in?

Session times are listed in EST. If you're in a different timezone and none of the listed times work, contact us — we regularly schedule sessions around student availability.

What if I miss a session?

Sessions are recorded. If you miss one, the recording will be shared with you so you don't fall behind.

Can I buy a PDF tutorial instead?

Yes — self-paced PDF tutorials are available separately. View all PDF tutorials →