What are some of the specializations within this degree program?

• Gemology: Those specializing in gemology evaluate and communicate the value and features of gemstones for jewelry.
• Bench Jeweler: The primary focus of bench jewelers is to sterilize and repair jewelry.
• Jewelry Appraisal:  Professionals in jewelry appraisal construct appraisal documents after determining how much a piece of jewelry is worth.
• Polishing: Polishers focus on applying the finishing touches on pieces of jewelry, such as thorough cleaning and adding luster.
• Assembly: Individuals are mainly responsible for setting or fusing together stones in jewelry. The use of computer-aided equipment is common among them.
• Engraving: Engravers add designs in jewelry with specific tools for customers. They use a great deal of new technology to help advance their craft.

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What degree levels are available?

• Apprenticeship: 1 year to complete
• Certificate Program: 6 months-1 year to complete
• Bachelor's Degree: 4 years to complete
• Master's Degree: 2 years to complete

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What are the educational and certification requirements?

There are several ways to break into the field of jewelry design and repair. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the traditional training method is on-the-job training, or apprenticeships, which is still very common.  It usually takes about 1 year for individuals to learn the basics of their craft, such as engraving, molding, repairing and setting stones. However, training time may vary, depending on the employer and area of specialty.

Formal education is also increasingly popular and maximizes chances of career advancement. It is also appealing to employers since less on-the-job training is needed, and many of them encourage workers with less experience to enroll in short-term programs to refine their skills at the company's expense. Since many programs in this arena offer online learning, a number of schools are accredited by the Distance Education and Training Council. Many technical or vocation schools offer special programs that take between six months and one year of full-time study to complete. Core classes include mathematics, shop theory, design, jewelry-making and others that may depend on the area of concentration.

Another familiar path is enrolling in art of design school. Individuals may pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts or Master of Fine Arts in jewelry design. A BFA normally takes about four years to complete while an MFA requires two years of full-time study. Both programs typically offer a comprehensive curriculum that encourages creative and technical growth. Students develop specialized skills through hands-on experience, self-evaluation, analysis, and class critiques. The degree programs also teach professional development methods, such as resume building, portfolio expansion and job search strategies. (RIT)

Although certification is not required for professionals in jewelry design and repair, it is a good way to demonstrate skill and increase job opportunities. Certified individuals are given a professional edge and often receive priority over non-certified tradespersons in this competitive industry. It is especially helpful for those who plan to start their own business and grow clientele. The Jewelers of America provides certification in several areas of concentration, including bench jeweler technician and master bench jeweler. (BLS)

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What kinds of classes will I be expected to take?

• Soldering: This fundamental concept demands skill with torches and flames to execute excellent jewelling technique. Flux and flow solders are common tools here. 
• Retailing Jewelry: In order to truly be a successful designer of jewelry, you must know how to market your business with great skill. This course endows you with ideas about business plans, following trends, and heeding the law.
• Gemstones and Diamonds: Rubies, sapphires, and other gems are taught in this class. Learn about ideas like carat weight, the art of stringing pearls and beads, and producing bezels. 
• Setting Stones: Learn how to make a jewel into something that can be truly treasured here. Channel mountings, retipping prongs, and handling faceted stones are among this course's lessons. 
• Jewelry Repair Technique: Pick up the skills that will define you as a true jewelry pro in this class. From fixing glasses to resizing rings, this is an important class to ace.

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If I pursue this program online, will I be required to complete any on-site training?

This largely changes from program to program. Some offerings can be completed entirely virtually, no showing up in person at all. Still other programs demand on-site training, to demonstrate that you can indeed design jewelry with skill. 

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What are some other degrees that are related to this program?

• Bridal Consulting: Help the wife-to-be get ready for her big day with aplomb by majoring in this field. Everything from food to fashion, interior design to investment smarts, comes into play here. 
• Floral Design: Learn how one blossom pairs well, or poorly, with another in this program. Your skills will help you land work in many arenas, from nuptials and funerals to corporate events and celebrity functions. 
• Gunsmithing: This degree program is all about firearms, from top to bottom. You'll learn how such myriad disciplines as woodworking, engineering, and metallurgy come together in the creation of a powerful weapon.

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