Learn Lapidary on our Basic Lapidary Course

Interested in learning the traditional craft of lapidary?

The Scottish Mineral & lapidary Club now offer a BASIC LAPIDARY COURSE which aims to instruct participants in the basic skills of lapidary.

Once your training is complete you can apply to become a member and have full access to the workshop and it’s facilities.

Continuation of membership is entirely optional after the training period, but this is the normal route to full membership.

SM&LC Basic Lapidary Course

The course consists of full instruction in the use of the Club lapidary equipment and the practical working, to completion, of 2 – 3 stones.

The course runs over a weekend and comprises 2 full day sessions

    • Day 1 – Saturday – Introduction to the workshop including its equipment and safety features. Initial work on creating a cabochon including shaping, grinding and dopping. With assistance, applicants will cut and shape a cabochon stone to a high finish.
    • Day 2  – Sunday –  Apprentice piece. Using the techniques learned on the first day applicants will cut, shape and polish a second cabochon stone, with minimal assistance.

Trainers are on hand at all times to instruct, oversee and answer questions. All necessesary materials, overalls and equipment are supplied. Attendees should bring their own lunch / drinks as our kitchen is not accessible due to coronavirus restrictions. Masks should be worn when working and measures have been taken to maintain social distancing.

Basic lapidary Course Instruction Dates

Instruction times and dates for 2023
(All remaining courses for 2022 are fully booked)

Basic Lapidary Course
Instruction takes place at 4 times throughout the year.

Courses for up to 6 people will continue for 2023 and will (Usually) take place on the first weekend of the Months of January, April, July and October.

2024 dates:

  • January 13th & 14th (Full)
  • April 6th & 7th
  • July 6th & 7th
  • October 5th & 6th

2025 Dates:

  • January 11th & 12th
  • April 5th & 6th
  • July 5th & 6th
  • October 4th &5th

To apply for any of the courses please download and complete our
 – Basic Lapidary Course Application form –

Then return it to us either by post or email.
This will reserve you a place on the course of your choosing.

The lapidary Course is our normal route to membership. It allows potential members a chance to get to know the craft, the equipment, the club and its members. Those undertaking the course will be offered Full Membership upon it’s successful completion.

If a course is fully booked please let us know of your interest in any event – We will try to find alternative classes or methods of instruction but all courses are on a first come first served basis.

Safe and confident working is essential and the course is aimed to allow newcomers to do just that. Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, Class sizes may be smaller to allow for social distancing and protocols are in place to facilitate hand sanitising and safe working.

Lapidary Course costs for 2024

£220 (Adults 16+ yrs)
£72 (Junior 10 – 15 yrs)

Lapidary Course costs for 2025

£250 (Adults 16+ yrs)
£72 (Junior 10 – 15 yrs)

Full Membership of the club is optional, but can be applied for once the course after successful completion of the course.

Lapidary Course Application Form:

Scottish Mineral & Lapidary Club – BASIC LAPIDARY COURSE – Application Form

To Apply for our Lapidary Courses just click the link above to download the form then fill it out and send it to us at the address below: (places on each course intake are limited so please contact us first to make sure there are spaces) Please include the applicable course fee, as a cheque, with your application.
If you wish to pay by another method then please contact us.

The Scottish Mineral and Lapidary Club
20 Maritime Lane,
Leith, Edinburgh.
EH6 6RZ.