Design, fabricate, adjust, repair, or appraise jewelry, gold, silver, other precious metals, or gems.
SOC: 51-9071.00
Common Job Titles
Bench Jeweler
Goldsmith
Jeweler
Silversmith
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeDesign custom jewelry pieces incorporating precious metals and gemstones using CAD software and traditional design principles to meet client specifications.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate quality and authenticity of precious stones and metals using gemological microscopes, testers, and loupes in appraisal contexts.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate precision soldering equipment and gas torches following metallurgical best practices to fabricate and repair jewelry components.
Proficient
Hands-onExecute precisely gemstone setting techniques using specialized pliers and burnishing tools ensuring secure mounting and optimal visual presentation.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess jewelry repair requirements and structural integrity determining appropriate techniques, materials, and tools for restoration.
Proficient
MindsetBalance artistic vision with customer expectations and budget constraints when developing custom design proposals and negotiating project parameters.
Proficient
Hands-onManipulate precious metals using hammers, mandrels, and rolling mills to shape, texture, and form jewelry pieces according to design specifications.
Developing
MindsetEngage with clients to understand their design preferences and emotional connections to jewelry demonstrating active listening and social perceptiveness during consultations.
Developing
Hands-onPerform detailed engraving and decorative metalwork using pneumatic gravers, chasing tools, and stamping dies with precision.
Developing
KnowledgeCalculate material quantities, weights, and costs for custom jewelry projects applying mathematical knowledge to provide accurate estimates and manage resources.
Developing
Hands-onOperate polishing units, tumblers, and ultrasonic cleaners to finish and maintain jewelry to professional standards.
Developing
KnowledgeApply knowledge of metallurgy, chemistry, and material properties when selecting alloys, solders, and treatments for specific jewelry applications.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Workers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
23,420
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $33,890. 25th percentile: U.S. $38,030. 50th percentile: U.S. $49,140. 75th percentile: U.S. $63,210. 90th percentile: U.S. $81,610. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$33,890
10% of workers earn the following or more
$81,610
Workers on average earn
$55,030
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Customer and Personal Service3.5/5
Production and Processing3.5/5
Design3.3/5
Mechanical3.2/5
Sales and Marketing2.9/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
