What does a Jeweler do?

Jewelers create, repair and service rings, bracelets, necklaces, brooches, earrings and other types of jewelry. They may also appraise and evaluate jewelry or sell pieces that are original or made by other Jewelry Makers. Jewelers’ repair and maintenance duties help customers enjoy their items for as long as possible. Jewelers can also drive sales for their employers by creating unique, well-crafted pieces that appeal to their target markets.

Jeweler skills and qualifications

Qualifications you might mention in your Jeweler job description include:

• In-depth knowledge of metallurgy, gemology and jewelry design principles

• Creative thinking skills to develop appealing jewelry design

• Customer service and interpersonal skills to foster positive interactions with customers

• Observation skills to assess raw materials and finished jewelry

• Ability to use polishing wheels, chemical baths, laser tools, molds, pliers, prong pushers and bezel rollers

• Math and cost-analysis skills to produce accurate quotes

• Computer skills to utilize computer-aided drafting (CAD), computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), accounting, email and other software programs

• Familiarity with Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grading standards for gemstones and US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regulations related to metal purity and gemstone and jewelry marketing

Jeweler experience requirements

Jewelers often begin their careers as apprentices or assistants, working under the close supervision of more experienced Jewelers for several years before working independently. If your new hire will work closely with more experienced professionals, they may not need prior experience.

However, Jewelers who need to work independently or supervise apprentices and assistants may need several years of work history. Considering candidates’ portfolios and work experience, if applicable, can help you make an informed hiring decision.

Jeweler education and training requirements

Jewelers typically complete a training program, such as a course of study at a secondary technical-vocational high school, an apprenticeship or a post-secondary diploma or certificate program.

Some employers prefer candidates who hold relevant certifications, such as the Bench Professional certification from Jewelers of America (JA), the Jewelry Design certification from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), or the Registered Jeweler credential from the American Gem Society (AGS). To earn one of these certifications, Jewelers typically need to complete a training course and demonstrate their knowledge or skills by passing a written or practical exam.

Job description samples for similar positions

If this Jeweler job description isn’t the right fit for your business needs, one of these related job titles may better match your open position:

• Geologist

• Retail Sales Associate

• Sheet Metal Worker

Jeweler job description FAQs

What’s the difference between a Jeweler and a Metalsmith?

A Metalsmith is an artisan who produces items out of gold, silver, platinum, bronze and other precious metals. Some Metalsmiths make jewelry or craft other items, such as tableware and vases. Jewelers specialize in the creation of jewelry.

What’s the difference between a Jeweler and a Gemologist?

Gemologists hold graduate-level degrees and research the properties and potential uses of precious stones. Jewelers have less formal training and apply their understanding of gemstones to the art of jewelry making.

How does a Jewelry Sales Associate job description differ from a Jeweler job description?

A Jewelry Sales Associate job description typically relates solely to the sale of jewelry, such as explaining the benefits of pieces to customers and organizing jewelry display cases. Some Jewelers have sales responsibilities, but they also repair and craft jewelry.

What’s the difference between a Jeweler and a Jewelry Designer?

A Jewelry Designer creates schematics and drawings for jewelry they don’t craft themselves. A Jeweler may execute the designs by hand or machines may perform the manufacturing process. Jewelers typically design jewelry and produce the finished pieces based on their designs.