How to Pick a Goldsmith School

Goldsmithing is an old trade dating back to ancient civilizations and their first use of pyrotechnology. Once a trade designated for catering to the wealthy, goldsmiths today create and design for the masses. Further, modern-day goldsmith training is not limited to trade schools. Design schools and colleges offer various degrees and programs which include goldsmithing. Pick a goldsmith school if you want to work with gold and design jewelry.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Decide what your goldsmithing and jewelry making goals are. Think about what sort of goldsmith school or program will help you reach your goals.

2. Know that different schools offer not only various goldsmithing programs and degrees, but also various course lengths and classroom formats.

3. Investigate goldsmith schools and determine which ones will best serve your needs. For instance, "Accademia delle ARTI ORAFE" offers on site short courses in Rome, Italy, but the school also offers video courses you can order online for independent study.

4. Contact each school you're interested in to learn about course costs, including supplies, books, travel and accommodation expenses (many schools have websites with this information posted).

5. Find out about available scholarships and financial aid for students when you contact schools before selecting a goldsmith school or program.

6. Pick a goldsmith school based on what's appropriate for your career and financial situation.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask your employer if tuition reimbursement is available to employees studying work-related or non work-related subjects.
• Ask schools about their credentials or accreditation. Check with jewelers to find out which schools are legit.

Resources

• Find out about studying goldsmithing in Rome, Italy.
• Learn about the Taos School of Metalsmithing and Lapidary Design.
• Read about Savannah College of Art and Design.
• Find a directory of schools for goldsmithing.
• Learn what it was like to be a goldsmith during colonial times.
• Discover the history of goldsmithing and silversmithing in the Middle East and beyond.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• Get the Degree You Need for the Career You Want. Discover what the very best online colleges have to offer.