Bench Jeweler Views
A bench jeweler is an artisan who uses a combination of jewelry-making skills to make and repair jewelry. The jewelry making arts can be subdivided into a very great many categories of specialized skills. Some of the more common skills that a bench jeweler might employ include antique restoration goldsmithing, stonesetting, engraving, fabrication, Wax Carving, lost-wax casting, electroplating, forging, and polishing. In order to understand how a bench jeweler fits into the process of jewelry making, it is important to understand the process itself.
In general terms, there are two major categories of jewelry production. First is production jewelry, which is to say that many copies of an original design are made and sold using processes such as molding, casting, stamping and similar techniques. The other is original, one of a kind work. The bench jeweler will be a factor in many facets of the process, depending on what is needed and the skills of the worker.
Bench jewelers are professionals that are typically employed by retailers that specialize in jewelry. They perform a variety of tasks such as cleaning and sizing jewelry, cutting stones, engraving, setting stones, creating models, polishing gems and metals, brazing, and fabrication. They also perform necessary repairs and adjustments on earrings, necklaces, rings, bracelets, and other jewelry. Some bench jewelers fulfill special orders from customers and create customized jewelry from scratch using a variety of materials and equipment. Bench jewelers use many different types of equipment such as lasers and computer-aided design software. They also work with a variety of materials such as gold, platinum, titanium, and a variety of gemstones.
Bench jewelers must have at least a high school diploma. Many learn their skills through on the job training, but some complete formal training at vocational and technical schools. Some bench jewelers also complete formal apprenticeship programs. Many aspiring bench jewelers complete training in computer-aided design to remain competitive in the field. Most employers provide on the job training for new bench jewelers to gain the necessary skills and experience. The training typically takes several months to complete and consists on instruction on engraving, setting stones, casting, and creating models. Many bench jewelers gain voluntary certification such as the Certified Bench Jeweler Technician from Jewelers of America. The requirements include minimum training and passing a written and practical examination.
Bench Jeweler Images
