Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Workers
Career Snapshot
Artistry is combined with diligent, careful, and exacting labour by jewellers and silversmiths. Attention to detail is the trademark of this profession's art and science, whether it's producing stunning settings for tiny stones, candlesticks, or goblets.
One out of every three jewellers is self-employed. Design, casting the metal, cutting and setting the stone, and polishing are talents for those who produce their own things. People working in jewellery production companies may only learn one of these stages, or a store owner may buy settings but leave the casting to someone else.
Despite the fact that this is an ancient craft, contemporary methods are changing the requirements. Computer-aided design, or C.A.D., is increasingly improving production and quality. Some work environments are more comfortable than others, yet even in a modern work environment, a jeweller or silversmith spends lengthy hours sitting and working with tiny things. This profession requires good eyesight and quick hands.
Store employees must also be able to grasp their customers' requirements and feelings when purchasing jewellery. People in this industry must be comfortable with security measures such as barred windows or even armed guards because the materials are frequently quite costly.
While conventional on-the-job apprenticeships are occasionally available, many vocational, technical, and art and design schools provide programmes that teach the various parts of jewellery production and repair. Correspondence courses are available from the Gemological Institute of America. Even in manufacturing jobs that offer training, an educated worker has a better chance of advancement.