To enter most technical school or college programs, a high school diploma or its equivalent is required. Advanced programs cover a wide range of topics, including the identification and grading of diamonds and gemstones. In addition, some employers encourage workers to improve their skills by enrolling in short-term technical school courses such as sample making, wax carving, or gemology. Many employers pay all or part of the cost of this additional training. This training lasts 3 to 4 years, depending on the difficulty of the specialty.
Training usually focuses on casting, stonesetting, modelmaking, or engraving.
In recent years, a growing number of technical schools and colleges have begun to offer training designed for jewelers working in manufacturing. The precise and delicate nature of jewelry work requires finger and hand dexterity, good hand-eye coordination, patience, and concentration. Artistic ability and fashion consciousness are major assets because jewelry must be stylish and attractive. Those who work in jewelry stores have frequent contact with customers and should be neat, personable, and knowledgeable about the merchandise. In addition, employers require someone of good character because jewelers work with very valuable materials.