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 four levels: certified bench jeweler technician, certified bench jeweler, certified senior 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.