How to Become a Jeweler

Getting an Education in Jewelry

Earn a high school diploma or GED. Jewelers typically need at least a high school diploma or the equivalent to get started in the industry. Universities and trade schools require it, and it’s a plus on an application for an entry-level job at a jewelry store.

Pursue an advanced degree in jewelry-making. A career as a jeweler doesn’t require an advanced degree, but many design and trade schools offer degree programs that range in length from 6 months to one year. Pursuing a degree can give you a well-rounded and general knowledge of jewelry-making or help you choose a specialization, such as design or metallurgy. In a jeweler degree program, you'll learn how to make and repair jewelry, set stones of different sizes, and work with new technologies for more precise cutting. Search for jeweler degree programs online. Most offer applications that can be filled out and sent in online. There are programs across the country and the world, in countries including Italy, the Netherlands, and New Zealand. Study different styles of jewelry in your free time. Ylva Bosemark, a jewelry designer and entrepreneur, says: "When I started, I didn't even think about the huge variety of jewelry that was available. It's amazing and incredible to go and look for different styles that are out there."

Teach yourself the basics of jewelry-making. Many successful jewelers describe themselves as self-taught, learning their craft by experimenting with making jewelry and getting a job in the industry. Some jewelers get their start after earning a degree in another field and growing a jewelry business as a side hobby. If an advanced degree in jewelry-making isn’t for you, start making pieces on your own time and experiment to see what works. Make sure you know how to safely use jewelry-making tools before you start creating your own pieces.

Getting Started in the Jewelry Industry

Start networking. Meet as many people in the jewelry industry as you can--other jewelers, jewelry designers, salespeople, gallery owners. Tell them that you want to become a jeweler and ask them for advice. When a job opens up, let them know you’re available and ready to learn.

Start small and work your way up in the jewelry industry. On-the-job training will be one of the most important learning opportunities you receive in your career as a jeweler. Accept any job offer you receive from a jewelry store or gallery, even if it means you’ll be making sales on the floor or polishing jewels in the back. A job as a salesperson can give you valuable experience in interacting with customers and learning what they’re looking for, and help you expand your network in the meantime. Many jewelers-in-training start out as polishers and gain valuable on-the-job experience through informal apprenticeships in manufacturing facilities, retail stores, or repair shops.

Learn from jewelers already in the business. Even if you’re working as a salesperson, ask to observe and learn from the store’s bench jeweler or gemologist. Soak up all the knowledge you can from these professionals who’ve had success in the industry. For example, you could work regular shift as a salesperson in the retail store, but ask to come in after hours or on days off to observe the jeweler at work. Treat the jeweler to coffee and ask for any tips they have for an aspiring jeweler.

Advancing Your Career as a Jeweler

Earn your certification. Once you’ve secured a job as a jeweler, a professional certification will assure your customers of the high quality of your work. Jeweler certifications require that you pass an exam either on-site or administered by a self-appointed proctor. Certifications are offered through a variety of organizations. Depending on the organization you choose, you might earn a Jewelers of America Professional Certification from Jewelers of America, or become certified as a Registered Jeweler through the American Gem Society. For jewelers outside the United States, search for jeweler certifications available within your country.

Start your own jewelry business when your customer base starts expanding. If your pieces are high-quality and your customer base is growing, you may wish to start your own business. You’ll need to find a supplier or make your supplies by hand, decide on a name, and create marketing materials. Decide whether to run your business online or in a store. You’ll reach local clientele in a store and raise your status in the community, and you’ll have the ability to physically display your jewelry. Online, you’ll have the opportunity to find customers all over the world. Get in touch with your chamber of commerce and Small Business Development Center to ensure that you’re properly licensed to start your own business. Be prepared to an school approach in the interactions with manufacturers and suppliers, because this industry tends to be very conservative. At the same time, you will probably want everything customer-facing to be modern and cutting-edge.

Get a job in a pre-established store once you've established a network and have good references. You may prefer the stability and benefits of working in a large jewelry corporation or a smaller, pre-established store over starting your own business. Continue networking to make contacts in the store or corporation that you want to work for and ask about their application process. Ask for references from jewelers and supervisors at jewelry stores that you've worked at. Prepare well for your interview and be able to give concrete examples of your work and experience.

Participate in gem and jewelry trade shows. This is a great way to continue networking in the industry meet merchants and sales reps who can expand your client base. To find these shows, read industry publications and check in with your chamber of commerce and national trade organizations. You can also get involved with organizations like the World Jewelry Confederation, which aims to promote and the jewelry industry worldwide and protect consumer interests.