Beyond High School

Here's a list of programs that you should consider if you're interested in this career:

• Watchmaking and Jewelrymaking
• Jewelry Arts

Education Level

Education training and experience are required at different levels for success in different occupations.

High school preferred, plus long term, on-the-job training

Although most jewelers and precious stone and metal workers have a high school diploma, many trade schools offer courses for workers who seek additional education. Course topics can include introduction to gems and metals, resizing, repair, and computer-aided design (CAD). Programs teach students how to design, cast, set, and polish jewelry and gems, as well as how to use and care for a jeweler’s tools and equipment. Graduates of these programs may be more attractive to employers because they require less on-the-job training. Many gemologists graduate from the Gemological Institute of America.

Insider Info

Additional Information

If you want to get into jewelry, the best thing to do is learn about the business, whether you're working in it or not.

If you want to be more of a designer or craftsperson like Jason Hampton, that means you might want to take a course in jewelry making. You can find these courses in continuing education programs, community colleges and vocational institutes.

In the meantime, Hampton says the easiest and best way to get into the business is the way he did it. He hounded a shop owner he knew until the man gave him a low-paying job mopping the floor and sizing the odd ring.

From there, a show of interest and eagerness got him into doing more actual jewelry making. Sales experience on the showroom floor also came with the job.

Hampton says it is very difficult to get an informal apprentice position, though. You really have to know someone in the business and hustle to get work.

There are educational institutes that specialize in the jewelry industry. The Gemological Institute of America, with campuses across the country, is an example. There, you can get certification as a gemologist. However this won't guarantee you a job.

There are various other titles one can obtain through education and experience, like certified gemologist appraiser and registered jeweler.

Extra Requirements

Jewelers of America offers four credentials, ranging from Certified Bench Jeweler Technician to Certified Master Bench Jeweler, for bench jewelers who pass a written and practical exam. Certification is not required to work as a bench jeweler, but it may help jewelers to show expertise and to advance. Voluntary certifications are available from the American Gem Society (AGS).

For additional information, visit these websites:

• http://www.americangemsociety.org
• http://www.jewelers.org