Designed for curious young learners, this class introduces students to the exciting world of gemstones and jewelry through interactive activities, authentic gemstones, creative projects, and engaging discussions.
Students will explore:
Gemstones and their hidden stories
Birthstones and their meanings
Diamonds and what makes them extraordinary
Famous jewels and royal collections
Jewelry design and creativity
Symbols, charms, and meaningful jewelry
Luxury brands and craftsmanship
A signature keepsake project to take home
Students leave with greater confidence, creativity, and an appreciation for the beauty, history, and science behind jewelry.
Designed for high school students interested in luxury, entrepreneurship, branding, design, and craftsmanship, this course explores the jewelry industry from both a creative and business perspective.
Students will explore:
Gemology fundamentals
The world's most iconic jewelry houses
Luxury branding and marketing
Diamonds and gemstone quality
Jewelry history and royal collections
Design principles and craftsmanship
Consumer psychology and storytelling
Entrepreneurship within the luxury industry
A signature keepsake project
Students gain insight into one of the world's most fascinating industries while developing an appreciation for quality, innovation, personal style, and business.
More than a jewelry class, Behind the Gem encourages creativity, confidence, curiosity, and cultural appreciation while introducing students to the fascinating world of luxury through a modern and inspiring perspective.
Ages 10–13
4:30–5:25 PM
Ages 14+
4:30–5:25 PM
Starting Sept 8th - Dec 9th 2026
$30/Class + $45 Material Cost
Xiomara Cortes
Maison Cortes
Xiomara Cortes is the founder of Maison Cortes, a luxury lifestyle brand based in Key Biscayne. With years of experience in fine jewelry, luxury branding, design, and entrepreneurship, she brings real-world industry knowledge into the classroom, giving students a unique opportunity to explore the craftsmanship, creativity, and business behind fine jewelry.
Through Behind the Gem, Xiomara combines authentic industry experience with engaging discussions, hands-on learning, and creative exploration to inspire curiosity, confidence, creativity, and an appreciation for design, culture, and entrepreneurship.