Design is an important component of the program, which also includes gemology, jewellery history and business practices in the jewellery trade. The program's head, Don Stuart, was recently elected president of the Society of North American Goldsmiths. The emphasis is on technical skills and all aspects of practical jewellery-making techniques. The first two years focus on manufacturing and custom design techniques - fabrication, finishing, gem setting, casting and other production methods, and jewellery repair. In the third year students specialize in either gem setting, goldsmithing or jewellery repair and also take courses in small business management.
Emphasis is on developing the skills necessary to perform complex repairs.
Gemology, jewellery design and small business management are also covered. 4464 between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. George Brown's Continuing Education Department has a Jewellery Techniques Certificate program comprised of courses that develop skills in fabrication, casting, repair and jewellery rendering. Optional courses include gem setting, enamelling, model making, silversmithing. Courses are held during the evenings fall, winter and spring and during the day in summer.