If you have been nurturing an interest in working with precious metals and gems, earning a certificate in jewelry can just be suitable career track for you. There are a number of certificate courses available in this field. A jewelry certificate courses is geared to facilitate creativity, to recognize your achievement and demonstrate your expertise in this specific area of study. These programs can prepare you for a career in jewelry design or repair. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, new jewelers will be needed to replace those who retire or who leave the field for other reasons.
Featured Programs
Certificate in Jewelry
The program duration depends on your enrollment status, but usually last from a couple of months to 1 year. Designed to instruct in drafting, shading and design theory, these short courses will help you learn how to use form, organize, structure and tools appropriate to the discipline and make aesthetic decisions.
The ones who want to get into the field of jewelry design or repair can pursue these short courses to acquire the skills necessary to launch a career. Those who are already in this field can also improve their profile by earning a jewelry certificate.
Admissions Requirement
To enroll in a certificate in jewelry, students generally need to hold a high school diploma or GED. They may have to meet additional requirements that may vary by school.
Program Coursework
The certificate programs in jewelry provide instruction in the history and traditions of jewelry making. Students also cover topics such as introduction to gems and metals, repair, resizing, and computer-aided design. They learn how to design, cast, set, and polish jewelry and gems. Besides, candidates also find out how to use and care for the jeweler’s tools and equipment.
Online Certificate in Jewelry
Some schools offer jewelry certificate programs in online format as well. These programs can be useful for those who want to study from the comfort of their office or home. Students can complete a course at their individual routine and acquire skills in the art of jewelry design or repair.
Career Prospects
Jewelry designers and repairs can look for opportunities in jewelry, luggage, and leather goods stores. Merchant wholesalers, jewelry and silverware manufacturing as well as personal and household goods repair and maintenance also hire jewelry designers and repairers. Income may vary by type of job, experience and expertise.
A certificate in jewelry may help students become precious metal workers as well. These experts have the skill to manipulate gold, silver, and other metals. Graduates may also qualify to become gemologists - who analyze, describe, and certify the characteristics and quality of gemstones. Bench jewelers and jewelry appraisers are some other positions that they can pursue. As of 2014, the median annual wage for jewelers and precious stone and metal workers was $36,870 (BLS).
Continuing Education
Graduates of a certificate in jewelry can advance their knowledge by pursuing professional certification. The Jewelers of America award a Certified Bench Jeweler Technician title that can be useful for jewelry designers and repairers. Candidates with advanced credentials may set up their own business or qualify for administrative positions.