This invention relates generally to the production of human neuronal cells from human embryonic stem cells and/or human neuronal progenitor cells. In some embodiments, the human neuronal cells are neural crest cells. In other embodiments, the human neuronal cells are peripheral neurons. In other embodiments, the human neuronal cells are schwann cells. The invention provides methods of culturing and purifying human neuronal cells and uses thereof. Such uses include generating models of neuropathy, drug screening methods, and cell based therapeutic.