Jeweler Aptitudes and Education
A jeweler uses his knowledge of gemstones and metals to design and repair jewelry that people wear in their daily lives. He must be able to advise customers on the quality, style and price of various types of jewelry, as well as work directly with the metals and gemstones to keep them maintained. A jeweler generally also sells jewelry, so an understanding of marketing and consumer habits is also helpful.
Aptitudes
Those interested in becoming jewelers should have a deep interest in gems of all type, as well the properties of metals used in jewelry. He or she should have good manual dexterity to work with small pieces and intricate designs. Good eyesight is also important in this field. The candidate should have a good memory for facts and data. He should be able to communicate well both verbally and in writing. The candidate should also have a strong artistic sense to match stones and settings.
Education
A prospective jewelry candidate should have a high school diploma. He should take basic courses in gemstones, goldsmithing, wax casting and design. Vocational or technical colleges may offer these courses.Gemological organizationsmay offer coursework and certification in various aspects of the jewelry fields. Art schools and schools that offer fashion design may offer some courses in jewelry design for those interested in creating their own jewelry design. After learning something of the foundations of the jewelry trade, candidates usually enter an apprenticeship or on-the-job training program. Metallurgy and computer-aided design is becoming common in jeweler’s training.
Apprenticeships
Many jeweler candidates do an apprenticeship with an employer for a number of years to learn the specialized information that is needed in this field. In this on-the-job training,experienced jewelersimpart practical understanding of the techniques used in the field every day, in regard to working the jewelry metals, polishing the stones and other aspects of jewelry creation and repair. Candidates go through increasing levels of training and certification.
Employment
Jewelry apprentices generally go on to work full-time for their employers. They may also go into jewelry design or start their own businesses. Those who train as jewelers generally stay in the field their entire lives. They may be involved in appraisal of antique jewelry or appraisals for insurance purposes. Experienced jewelers are required to renew their certifications and take continuing education classes to keep up with advances in the field. As of 2010, jewelers’ annual salary ranges between $28,000 and $44,000.
