Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Jewelry Technician

🎯 Role Definition

As a Jewelry Technician, you are the artisan at the heart of our operations. You are a skilled craftsperson responsible for bringing fine jewelry to life, whether through meticulous repair, breathtaking restoration, or the creation of custom-designed masterpieces. This role demands a unique blend of technical mastery, artistic vision, and unwavering attention to detail. You will work with precious metals and gemstones, utilizing both traditional techniques and modern technology to ensure every piece meets the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship. Your work directly contributes to our brand's reputation for excellence and plays a vital role in creating lasting memories for our clients.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Jewelry Trade School Graduate
Apprentice Jeweler
Polisher / Finisher

Advancement To:

Master Jeweler / Head Bench Jeweler
Custom Jewelry Designer
Workshop Manager / Shop Foreman

Lateral Moves:

CAD/CAM Jewelry Designer
Quality Control Specialist
Gemologist

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Perform expert-level jewelry repair, including ring sizing, chain repair, clasp replacement, and prong re-tipping and replacement.
Execute a wide range of stone setting techniques, including prong, bezel, pavé, channel, and flush setting for diamonds and colored gemstones.
Utilize advanced laser welding equipment for precise and delicate repairs on intricate pieces and heat-sensitive materials.
Master traditional torch soldering and brazing techniques for assembling and repairing gold, platinum, and silver jewelry.
Operate and maintain casting equipment for lost-wax casting of custom designs and reproduction pieces.
Conduct high-quality polishing and finishing, including satin, matte, and high-polish finishes, to restore pieces to a like-new condition.
Apply rhodium, gold, and other precious metal plating to enhance appearance and durability.
Re-shank rings by replacing worn bands while preserving the integrity of the original setting and design.
Fabricate custom jewelry from scratch, working from technical drawings, CAD renderings, or client concepts.
Skillfully assemble complex jewelry pieces, ensuring all components are secure, aligned, and function correctly.
Diagnose repair needs through careful inspection, identifying the most effective and durable solution for restoration.
Manage the workflow of multiple repair and custom jobs simultaneously, ensuring timely completion without sacrificing quality.
Restore antique and heirloom jewelry with exceptional care, using period-appropriate techniques to preserve their historical value.
Set and secure a diverse variety of gemstone shapes and sizes, ensuring their long-term stability in the mounting.
Perform detailed hand or machine engraving for personalization and custom design elements.
Rebuild and restore worn or damaged settings, galleries, and undercarriages to ensure the structural integrity of the piece.

Secondary Functions

Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workshop environment in compliance with all safety standards.
Perform routine maintenance, cleaning, and calibration of all jewelers' tools, machinery, and equipment.
Assist in managing the inventory of findings, loose stones, and precious metal stock, placing orders as needed.
Accurately document all work performed, materials used, and time spent on each job in the company’s tracking system.
Collaborate with the sales team and gemologists to provide accurate time and cost estimates for repairs and custom projects.
Adhere strictly to safety protocols for handling chemicals, operating torches, and using high-speed equipment.
Stay current with emerging jewelry techniques, tools, and industry best practices through continuous learning and professional development.
Participate in quality control reviews to ensure all outgoing work meets the company's rigorous standards for craftsmanship.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Advanced Stone Setting: Proficiency in a variety of setting styles including prong, pavé, channel, bezel, and flush.
Precious Metal Expertise: In-depth knowledge of working with gold (all karats), platinum, palladium, and sterling silver.
Laser & Torch Welding: Mastery of both modern laser welding for precision work and traditional torch soldering techniques.
Casting & Mold Making: Experience with the lost-wax casting process, including wax carving/injection, investing, and finishing.
Polishing & Finishing: Skill in using polishing lathes, magnetic tumblers, and various compounds to achieve diverse surface finishes.
-Fabrication & Assembly: Ability to build and assemble jewelry from raw stock and components.
Ring Sizing & Shank Repair: Expertise in seamlessly sizing rings up or down and replacing full or half shanks.
Gemological Knowledge: Basic understanding of gemstone properties to ensure safe handling during repair and setting.
Microscope Proficiency: Skilled in using a microscope for intricate tasks like pavé setting and detailed inspection.
Tool Mastery: Proficient use of a full range of jeweler's hand tools, including flex shafts, gravers, pliers, and measuring devices.
Plating: Experience with electroplating processes, particularly rhodium plating.

Soft Skills

Meticulous Attention to Detail: An exceptional eye for identifying the smallest imperfections and a commitment to precision.
Problem-Solving: The ability to diagnose complex structural or cosmetic issues and devise effective solutions.
Exceptional Hand-Eye Coordination: Superior manual dexterity and a steady hand are paramount for delicate work.
Time Management: Ability to manage and prioritize a high volume of projects to meet deadlines.
Patience & Focus: The capacity to concentrate for long periods on intricate and repetitive tasks.
Artistic Sensibility: A strong aesthetic sense for proportion, balance, and form in jewelry design.
Adaptability: Willingness to learn new techniques and work with new technologies.
Strong Work Ethic: A reliable, self-motivated professional committed to producing the highest quality work.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or equivalent.

Preferred Education:

Diploma or certification from a recognized jewelry trade program or school (e.g., GIA, New Approach School for Jewelers, North Bennet Street School).

Relevant Fields of Study:

Jewelry Arts / Jewelry Design
Metalsmithing
Gemology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

3-7 years of professional experience as a bench jeweler in a repair shop, manufacturing facility, or luxury retail environment.

Preferred:

Experience working with high-end, custom, and designer jewelry.
A portfolio of past work demonstrating a wide range of skills, including custom fabrication and complex repairs.