Jewelers and Jewelry Repairers

Certification or Licensing

Certification is available in several areas through the Jewelers of America, a trade organization. Those who do bench work (the hands-on work creating and repairing jewelry) can be certified at one of these levels: certified beginner bench jeweler, certified bench jeweler, and certified master bench jeweler. Each certification involves passing a written test and a bench test. Sales associates and managers can also earn certification through the association. Although voluntary, these certifications show that a professional has met certain standards for the field and is committed to this work. Thus, employers may be more likely to hire them.

Other Requirements

Given the expensive nature of jewelry, some people working in the retail industry are bonded, which means they must pass the requirements for an insurance company to underwrite them. This may include a background check or a credit check.