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Jeweller

Jewellers design and make jewellery and small objects using a wide range of materials, including metals, stones, woods, plastics and fibres.

Jewellers may specialise in making particular types of jewellery (such as rings) or in using specialised techniques (such as enamelling, engraving, anodising or casting).

Jewellers may work using mass production techniques and machinery, concentrating on one part of the work, or as more highly skilled craftspeople producing an entire piece from beginning to end.

TASKS

Jewellers may perform the following tasks:

create design drawings and specifications for wearable or three-dimensional objects
shape metal and other materials by cutting, filing, hammering, turning, spinning, bending, casting, folding and linking using specialised hand and power tools and equipment
assemble articles using soldering, screwing, riveting and other joining methods
finish articles using files, emery paper, buffing machines or other appropriate tools and equipment
secure gemstones in settingsengrave designs on ring settings, brooches, bracelets and other articles
repair jewellery by soldering, replacing or rebuilding worn or broken parts
remodel old jewellery
sell jewellery direct to the public or to retail jewellery shops

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

enjoy artistic and creative work
good eyesight (may be corrected)
good hand-eye coordination
able to work carefully and accurately
creative design ability
enjoy making things
patient and able to persevere

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

To become a jeweller you usually have to complete an apprenticeship or traineeship in Jewellery Manufacture or Jewellery and Object Design.

Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.

You can also become a jeweller by completing a VOC qualification in jewellery manufacture or jewellery and object design. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.

Alternatively, you can become a jeweller by completing a degree at university with a major in jewellery, 3D design or gold and silversmithing. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12 with English. Applicants may also be required to attend an interview and submit a folio of work.

A number of universities in Australia offer degrees in these areas.

Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements. Contact the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Jewellers may work for manufacturing firms. Many run their own jewellery business and sell direct to the public or supply work to galleries on commission or at wholesale prices.

Most job opportunities for jewellers are in capital cities, followed by larger country centres. Competition for apprenticeships is extremely strong, with a limited number offered each year.