Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Jewelry Bench Jeweler

🎯 Role Definition

As a Jewelry Bench Jeweler, you are the master craftsperson who brings our clients' cherished pieces back to life and transforms creative visions into tangible works of art. You will operate within our state-of-the-art workshop, utilizing both traditional techniques and modern technology like laser welders to perform a wide array of tasks. This position is critical to maintaining our reputation for excellence, ensuring every piece that leaves your bench meets the highest standards of quality, durability, and beauty. You are not just a technician; you are an artist and a problem-solver, playing a key role in customer satisfaction and the creation of future heirlooms.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Apprentice Jeweler
Jewelry Polisher / Finisher
Jewelry Production Assistant

Advancement To:

Master Bench Jeweler
Head of Repair Department / Workshop Manager
Custom Design Specialist

Lateral Moves:

CAD/CAM Jewelry Designer
Quality Control Inspector (Jewelry)
Gemologist / Stone Buyer

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Perform intricate ring sizing adjustments on a diverse range of precious metals, including platinum, gold (10k, 14k, 18k), and silver, ensuring a perfect fit and seamless finish.
Expertly set and secure various types and shapes of gemstones, including diamonds and colored stones, using techniques like prong, bezel, pavé, channel, and flush setting.
Execute complex jewelry repairs such as fixing broken chains, replacing worn-out clasps, and soldering cracked shanks with precision and care.
Re-tip and rebuild worn or broken prongs to ensure the long-term security of valuable gemstones in rings, pendants, and earrings.
Utilize advanced laser welding technology to perform delicate repairs on heat-sensitive items, antique pieces, and intricate settings that are not suitable for traditional torch work.
Professionally clean, polish, and refinish jewelry to restore its original luster and brilliance, applying various finishing textures like high-polish, matte, or satin.
Conduct thorough inspections and diagnoses of damaged jewelry to accurately assess the required repairs, estimate time, and determine necessary materials.
Fabricate custom jewelry pieces from raw materials or supplied castings based on design specifications, sketches, or CAD renderings.
Perform skilled engraving and personalization on jewelry items using both hand tools and engraving machines for custom orders.
Manage the complete casting process, including wax model preparation, spruing, investing, burnout, and casting of precious metals.
Assemble and finish complex multi-part jewelry pieces, ensuring all components are properly aligned, soldered, and function correctly.
Restring pearl and bead necklaces and bracelets, employing professional knotting techniques to ensure durability and a classic appearance.
Modify existing jewelry to meet new customer specifications, such as converting earrings from post to lever-back or transforming a brooch into a pendant.
Perform detailed restoration work on antique and heirloom jewelry, respecting original craftsmanship while ensuring structural integrity for future generations.
Set up, calibrate, and maintain all bench tools and equipment, including torches, laser welders, polishing motors, and flex shafts, to ensure optimal performance and safety.
Perform head replacement and tightening for all stone settings to secure loose gems and prevent loss.

Secondary Functions

Collaborate closely with the sales team and designers to review repair intake and custom design orders, providing technical feedback and feasibility assessments.
Meticulously document all repair and custom work performed, including materials used and hours logged, for accurate job tracking and billing.
Manage and maintain an organized inventory of findings, precious metals, solder, and other essential workshop supplies, placing orders as needed.
Uphold all workshop safety protocols and maintain a clean, organized, and efficient personal workspace to prevent accidents and contamination.
Assist in the quality control process by inspecting finished pieces from other jewelers to ensure they meet the company's high standards before client delivery.
Engage in continuous professional development by staying current with new jewelry techniques, tools, and industry best practices.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Proficiency in multiple stone setting techniques (prong, pavé, channel, bezel, etc.).
Advanced laser and torch soldering/welding capabilities.
Expertise in a wide range of jewelry repair, including prong re-tipping, chain repair, and shank replacement.
Proficient in professional polishing, finishing, and plating (e.g., Rhodium).
Deep knowledge of precious metal properties and alloys (Platinum, Gold, Silver).
Experience with casting, wax carving, and/or jewelry model making.
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and CAD renderings for custom fabrication.

Soft Skills

Exceptional attention to detail, precision, and a commitment to quality.
Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities for diagnosing complex repairs.
Excellent time management and the ability to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Effective communication skills for collaborating with team members and sales staff.
High degree of manual dexterity and a strong artistic sensibility.
A patient and methodical approach to intricate and delicate work.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED.

Preferred Education:

Completion of a professional jewelry program or certification from a recognized institution (e.g., GIA, New Approach School for Jewelers, PJC).

Relevant Fields of Study:

Jewelry Arts
Metalsmithing
Gemology
Fine Arts

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 3-7+ years of professional experience as a bench jeweler in a repair or custom design environment.

Preferred: Experience working in a high-volume retail repair setting or a fine custom jewelry studio. A portfolio showcasing past repair, fabrication, and setting work is highly encouraged.