How to become a jeweler

Jewelers typically need at least a high school diploma or equivalent GED to get started in the industry. Universities, art institutes, and trade schools that offer related programs generally require that their students have successfully completed secondary school. And, of course, a high-school diploma is a definite plus when applying for an entry-level position in the field.

Recommended high school subjects for prospective jewelers are visual arts and mathematics, as well as English and communications.

While an apprenticeship or on-the-job training can sometimes be an alternative to formal education, the most common route to becoming a jeweler today involves a combination of both.

Jewelry making programs at technical or vocational schools teach the basic skills of polishing, stone setting, enameling, laser welding, casting, crafting, and repairing jewelry. These curricula provide sufficient training to prepare graduates to enter the field as bench jewelers.

Many vocational programs include instruction in computer-aided design (CAD), which is increasingly used in the modern era of jewelry making. CAD courses are very often taken as elective courses as part of a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts. Aspiring jewelers enrolled in a bachelor’s program and who plan to run their own business will commonly add business courses to their curriculum, in preparation for branding, marketing, and selling their designs and creations.

For a directory of jewelry schools, visit the Jewelers of America website. The site lists recommended schools based on the following categories of interest:

• Antique Jewelry and Jewelry Appreciation
• Appraisal
• Arts and Crafts Classes and Beadwork
• Gemology
• Management, Sales, and Marketing
• Manufacturing: Diamond Cutting and Lapidary Arts
• Manufacturing: Jewelry Fabrication and Repair
• Watch Repair and Watchmaking

Most bench jewelers find work at jewelry manufacturing plants, retailers, repair shops, or exclusive jewelry stores.

For jewelers who wish to design their own pieces and operate their own business, here are some guidelines and recommendations:

Become a graduate Gemologist to thoroughly understand precious stones

The best way to accomplish this is through the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). The program will give you a strong basic knowledge of any gemstone that you will use as a distinctive feature in your own unique designs.

Study the Masters to understand what makes fine jewelry

The finest jewelers learn the details of the quality of the workmanship used in the 1920s and the 1950s by famous American and French jewelry houses. They study the construction of signed pieces, the shape of holes, the smoothness of the surfaces, the cleanliness of lines, the softness of hinges, and the comfort of the fit.

The best way to study these details and get an understanding of the pricing of gemstones is to follow the major auction houses: Christie’s and Sotheby’s.

Participate in gem and jewelry shows

These are the three premier annual trade shows for the jewelry industry:

• The GJX (Gem and Jewelry Exposition)
• The AGTA (American Gem Trade Association)
• The JCK (Jewelers Circular Keystone)

Create a cohesive collection to present to retailers

Professional jewelers recommend that any brand new collection should be made initially of the following items:

• Four necklaces
• 10 pairs of earrings
• Five rings
• Two bracelets
• Two bangles

Assign retail prices that are appropriate for the market you are targeting

To position your retail prices correctly, it is important to research the retail prices of other comparable collections within your target market. With this knowledge, you will be able to determine your target costs, which you will use to obtain quotes from manufacturers.

Find a reasonable manufacturer to support your production

A manufacturer who is genuinely excited to work with you and who understands that they may at times have to provide quick alterations is vital to your business. Even if you are certain that your chosen manufacturer is trustworthy, be sure to have them sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA). By signing this agreement, they commit not to disclose information about your designs to third parties.

Get your collection photographed by a professional

High-quality photographs of your jewelry collection are fundamental. They serve insurance purposes, in case of theft. Retailers can sell your collection anywhere in the world by sending photos of your pieces to their customers. Visitors to your website can clearly see various views of your creations.

Invest in a professional website

This is a necessary investment if you are serious about presenting your product to the world. Tailor your website to the image you want to project. Update the site frequently, with new pictures and new written content. Never stop looking for new ways to improve the customer experience. Always be transparent. Implement a generous return policy.

Create a wish list of retailers to feature your collection

Creating such a list is the easy part. The hard part is getting your work in the retail stores you want to be in. The process takes perseverance, determination, and of course, unwavering belief in your designs.

Consult the Bench Professional Certification Program Guide administered by the Jewelers of America.The Jewelers of America also offer credentials for sales and management professionals in the industry.

Additional designations and titles are available through the American Gem Society.

The jewelry industry, like many others, has several organizations and associations that offer continuing education opportunities to bench jewelers, as well as to sales personnel and managers in the field:

Jewelers of America

Gemological Institute of America

Jewelers Circular Keystone