Failure is a Goldmine: Lessons from Master Goldsmith Jeanette Caines

Author: Courtney Gray

Podcast Episode: The Jeweler's View | Episode 40 ft. Jeanette Caines

If you’ve ever avoided working with gold because you’re scared of ruining it, you’re not alone. The fear is real—especially the moment you take flame to the metal. That’s where most jewelers freeze.

In Part 2 of my conversation with master goldsmith and educator Jeanette Caines, we get honest about why failure isn’t just unavoidable—it’s essential. Jeanette has been teaching jewelers for decades, and her approach flips the script on perfectionism.

“Mistakes aren’t the problem. The problem is what happens when you let them stop you.” – Jeanette Caines

The Fear Starts with the Torch

According to Jeanette, torch work is where the fear really kicks in. Gold feels expensive, delicate, and unforgiving. But the truth? Gold is incredibly forgiving—if you know how to work with it.

She teaches students to get comfortable with flame on day one, stripping away the fear before it has a chance to grow. The goal isn’t just technical skill—it’s mental ease.

From Panic to Confidence

We talked about that shift every goldsmith experiences: the moment you stop panicking when something goes wrong. You learn to breathe, think, and solve the problem in front of you. That’s when you know you’re moving toward mastery.

What Mastery Really Means

Mastery isn’t about never making mistakes—it’s about what you do when they happen. For Jeanette, it’s being steady enough to problem-solve in the moment without letting fear take over.

Apprenticeships and the Right Fit

Jeanette also shared how she selects apprentices at Jewelry Arts Inc. It’s not about perfect portfolios—it’s about curiosity, work ethic, and a willingness to learn. Skills can be taught. Attitude is what matters most.

Bringing Her Philosophy Online

One of the most exciting parts of this conversation? Jeanette is bringing her “bring what you’ve got and we’ll work with it” teaching style to a global audience through her Dr. Goldsmith membership. That means jewelers everywhere can learn from her, no matter where they are.

My Takeaway? Stop Waiting. Start Learning.

Failure isn’t a sign you’re not ready—it’s proof you’re in the game. The only way to get good with gold is to work with gold, and Jeanette’s perspective makes that feel possible, even for beginners.

🎧 Listen to the Full Episode

Episode 40: Failure is a Goldmine – Part 2 with Jeanette Caines

Podcast → Listen here

YouTube → Watch here

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Learn from Jeanette:

Dr. Goldsmith Membership

Jewelry Arts Inc.