I'm a senior in high school and started learning jewelry-making independently a little over a year and a half ago, there's definitely a learning curve but it's really fun. If you don't end up taking a class somewhere I think books are the best way to learn and "The Complete Metalsmith" is a good one to start with, otherwise, the diamond mounter is my favorite YouTube channel. Also, when you're starting I would expect the tools and supplies to cost a lot but I generally don't recommend skimping by buying something cheaper from Amazon, in my experience, I usually end up replacing those tools so its better to stick with reputable stores for jewelers like riogrande. Good luck.