How to Train in Jewelry Making

Jewelry making can be a fun and challenging hobby or career.

Jewelry making can be a fun and challenging hobby or career. Training requires not simply practice, but instruction from seasoned jewelry artists who can coach and advise other aspiring artists. Taking local classes, finding an internship or enrolling at a formal school can help you to begin a career in jewelry design and construction.

Instructions

1. Find a jewelry school that fits your needs. Research the cost, course options and locations of potential jewelry schools. Chose between beginning an education through introductory weekend classes, or enrolling full-time in a certified jewelry academy when looking for a professional career as a jewelry artist. If you decide to turn jewelry making into a career, choose a school that will prepare you for the Jewelers of America Bench Jeweler Certification exam. This exam tests a jeweler's ability to perform specific techniques, set stones and repair jewelry. This certification will help you become a competitive candidate in the jewelry industry.

2. Determine your current skill level. Begin "Jewelry I" introduction courses if you have little to no previous experience. Learn the basic principles of obtaining and testing certain metals and gain proficiency in soldering, piercing, filing and stone setting. Choose an advanced, technique-specific course such as stone setting, hand crocheting chains or jewelry restoration if you are at a higher level.

3. Perfect your skills by moving into advanced classes. Work more with precious metals and precious stones. Take skill specific classes such as "Jewelry Technician Intensive" courses, which offer practical employment opportunities, or "Ring Making," which opens you up to the lucrative market of selling jewelry either at shops, online or in weekend markets.

4. Contact a respected jewelry artist by talking with boutique owners or local markets. Gain professional opinions on your work from these successful jewelry artists and improve your skill or technique through their advice. Use these connections to gain an internship at an accredited studio or workshop.

5. Study under a mentor to gain further knowledge, criticism of work and new skill sets. Ask your mentor if payment is possible through the internship. Attempt to sell your pieces at shops and markets or work on repairing damaged jewelry pieces such as watches, necklaces or rings.

6. Continue to take classes or enroll in workshops so that you stay up-to-date on new techniques, styles and procedures. Network and collaborate with other jewelry artists to continually expand connections and references that can help you obtain employment or develop new ideas.

References

• Revere Academy of Jewelry Arts: Classes & Diplomas
• American School of Jewelry: Which Program is Right for me?
• Metal Werx: Learn Jewelry Making, Community School and Workshops
• GIA: GIA Licensing and Accreditation