Lucas Shoffner, Apprentice Bench Jeweler, is getting ready to turn pro.
Lucas Shoffner has been working as an Apprentice Bench Jeweler at Studio D Jewelers for three years. And he recently graduated from high school. Yep, you read that right...
At 15 years old, Lucas was involved in an entrepreneurial program at Woodstock High School, in Woodstock, IL, focusing on metalsmithing and forging. But his true passion lay in jewelry creation. An introduction was made, and he came to Studio D Jewelers to learn the craft of jewelry, on a part-time basis, while he continued high school.
As Lucas put it “From a young age, I have been a very hands-on learner and have been enthusiastic about art and creating. I tried blacksmithing but found myself intrigued more with the small details and artistic aspect of working with metal that led to me being introduced to jewelry creation.”
Throughout the last few years, between classes and work, Lucas has been reading as much as possible about creating jewelry, in books, and magazines, often researching information about projects and learning while he worked. He said “I seek all the information I can find regarding the craft. And I work with two goldsmiths, one of whom is considered a master and has taught me much more than I could’ve ever asked for. Each piece of jewelry I work on provides new challenges and insights that push me to learn more.”
With an absolute conviction that he has found his calling, and the support of his parents, Lucas has a solid plan in place for the next few years, and eventually developing a full-on career in the jewelry industry. “I plan to continue my apprenticeship in jewelry repair at Studio D Jewelers, where I will finish my 5-year apprenticeship in 2026. I will be attending MCC, majoring in business, and gaining an associate's degree before enrolling at the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) in Carlsbad, California, where I will take classes to become certified in diamond and colored stone identification and grading, along with their graduate bench jewelry program as well as their comprehensive CAD/CAM for jewelry program.”
It is a lot for a young adult, but Lucas is confident in his plan - “I am truly passionate about the craft, working as many hours as possible to soak up information. I have set up a small home studio of my own where I am continuing to learn and practice, and I foresee myself putting in an additional 15-20 hours of practice weekly, ensuring that I am well-rounded before moving on to the next set of skills.”
Tracy Gibson, Store Manager Studio D, said about Lucas “The jewelry industry needs people who are passionate about its history and meaning and why it is and continues to be an important part of human expression. Lucas embodies that philosophy and has consistently dedicated his resources and energy to expanding his skills so that he can make meaningful contributions. What development and support we have offered at the beginning of his journey will be quickly outweighed by Lucas' accomplishments.”
Lucas is always busy in the jewelers’ room at Studio D, working on repairs, and when he has time, creating his own line of pieces. You can see his creations on display in-store (and on our newly updated website: www.studiodjewelers.com), and follow him on Instagram: @lucas_jewelry00.
Everyone at Studio D congratulates Lucas on his graduation and wishes him all good things in his career! Stop by the store anytime to congratulate him.