I have been asked many times for advice about becoming a professional jeweler.
So here are my musings, thoughts, and opinions on how to become a professional jeweler. This might ramble a bit but I feel this all ties together.
Tag: jeweler
DACUM Competency Profile for goldsmiths
It is my hope that this competency profile can be used by administrators in trade schools, 4-year colleges & universities, Postsecondary vocational schools, technical colleges and high school trade classes. I will be using this as a basis for my teaching and the book I hope to write very soon helping others learn the basics of goldsmithing.
How do you start?
If you are reading this, I hope you came to my blog because you have decided that having a career in the jewelry trade might be fun and interesting.I have no idea what you think you will find here. I also am not sure what you need to hear so all I can do is…
Work Hardening Fine Silver
About fine silver A few weeks ago on Facebook I saw a post about the correct way to anneal fine silver. Being a professional jeweler, I answered with the comment that fine silver does not need annealing as it has no copper or other alloying metals in it and as such, can not work harden….
What does a Jewelry Educator do?
Below is the description that I share to let people know what I do as a Jewelry Educator.I felt it might be wise to look at this statement, “deconstruct” it and expand on it so you can see my reasoning for writing what I did. it has a lot to talk about and even more…
Hooked fasteners made from wound wire
This style of hooked fastener was very popular during the early Tudor era. (1500 – 1575). As there is no soldering, it is a good first project for new jewelers. The process used here can be easily used to make other items.
A Basic Tool Set for Jewelers
I have seen that many online educational videos tend to assume that you have some experience with bench work. Many also assume that you have access to tools. Lots of tools. Very expensive tools. This was a pet peeve of mine when I was just starting in the 80’s and it seems that nothing has really changed.
Making a sanding stick
This video shows how to make a basic, but often used tool at the jewelers bench. The sanding stick. You should make several of these in different grits of paper.
The Tiffany Setting
A great example of how things change.
Look at your engagement or wedding ring. Is it a Tiffany style solitaire? If so, I have some trivia for you.
Shop Tips for Bench Jewelers
Every jeweler starts somewhere This page is where I will share information that I have learned over the years.