Gem Trees
JUNE 8-14, 2025 WILLIAM HOLLAND
JERRI HEER - GEM TREES
This class will start with the basic skills of gem tree making and graduate to an exploration of multiple styles and advanced designs of truly beautiful and species-specific trees. We will discuss, study, and sample a variety of construction methods, as well as how to plan and create your own versions from patterns provided. The class fee includes wire, leaf stones, bases, and materials to make a basic tree and at least two additional trees of the student's choice. All instructions, patterns, tools, and materials are provided. Students are encouraged to be creative and modify designs to make their trees their own. A large variety of additional wire, leaf and base materials will be available for purchase.
Lab Fee: $90.00
Estimated Materials Cost: $0-$250
Prerequisites: None
BIO:
Jerri Heer - Gem Trees
Jerri has been making Gem Trees since 1995. She fell into rockhounding and Lapidary Arts in the process of home-schooling her four children. The family joined the Toledo Gem and Rockhound Club and learned rock collecting, cabbing, soapstone carving, gem trees and flint knapping together. She has also studied Silversmithing, Beading, and Scrimshaw. Jerri took Gem Trees to a new level, designing her own styles and patterns, as well as developing her own techniques. She specializes in “species specific” gem trees. She has taught Gem Trees for many Gem and Mineral Clubs, local schools, and scout groups, as well as William Holland and Wild Acres. Her Gem Tree competitive exhibits have earned awards with the Rocky Mountain Midwest Federation, American Federation, Florida State Fair, and the Florida Strawberry Festival. She lives in Tampa, Florida and is a member of several rock clubs. Her second specialty is Seed Beading & Bead Embroidery, especially with china cabs as focal points.