Jewelry Goldsmith | Master Craftsman & Repair Specialist

🎯 Role Definition

This role requires an experienced and talented Jewelry Goldsmith to be a cornerstone of our workshop. As a key member of our artisan team, you will be responsible for bringing breathtaking custom designs to life, performing complex and delicate repairs on high-value pieces, and ensuring every item that leaves your bench meets our exacting standards of quality and excellence. The ideal candidate possesses a deep passion for the craft, an artist's eye for detail, and the technical mastery of a seasoned bench jeweler. You will work with precious metals, diamonds, and rare gemstones, making your contribution essential to our brand's reputation for superior craftsmanship.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Apprentice Goldsmith / Bench Jeweler
Jewelry Repair Technician
Graduate of a Jewelry Arts or Metalsmithing Program

Advancement To:

Master Goldsmith / Head Bench Jeweler
Workshop Manager / Studio Director
Custom Design Manager or Specialist
Quality Control Supervisor

Lateral Moves:

Jewelry CAD/CAM Designer
Gemologist / Stone Buyer
Jewelry Appraiser

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Execute a comprehensive range of complex jewelry repairs, including ring sizing, prong re-tipping and replacement, chain soldering, clasp repair, and restoration of heirloom pieces.
Expertly set a variety of gemstones, including diamonds and colored stones, utilizing techniques such as pavé, channel, bezel, prong, and flush setting.
Fabricate custom jewelry from raw materials, interpreting design concepts, sketches, or CAD renderings into finished, high-quality wearable art.
Perform all phases of casting, including wax carving/preparation, investment, burnout, and centrifugal or vacuum casting of precious metals like gold, platinum, and silver.
Operate and maintain advanced workshop equipment, including laser welding machines, torches, polishing lathes, ultrasonic cleaners, and engraving systems.
Conduct meticulous quality control inspections on all repairs and newly created pieces to ensure they adhere to the highest standards of structural integrity and aesthetic finish.
Apply a variety of finishing techniques, including satin, matte, high polish, and hammered finishes, to achieve desired design aesthetics.
Assemble and solder intricate multi-part jewelry pieces with precision, ensuring clean seams and strong joints.
Skillfully refurbish and restore antique and estate jewelry, preserving their original character while ensuring their longevity.
Collaborate directly with designers and sales associates to provide technical insights and feasibility assessments for custom design projects.
Manage workflow and prioritize tasks effectively to meet customer deadlines and internal production schedules without compromising quality.
Perform intricate hand-engraving or prepare pieces for engraving, adding personalized details to custom orders.
Re-shank rings and rebuild worn-out settings to extend the life of cherished jewelry items.
Diagnose structural issues in jewelry and recommend the most effective and durable repair solutions.

Secondary Functions

Maintain a clean, organized, and safe personal bench and contribute to the overall cleanliness and safety of the workshop.
Assist in managing the inventory of precious metals, findings, diamonds, and colored gemstones, reporting needs to the purchasing manager.
Provide accurate time and material cost estimates for repair and custom design inquiries to support the sales team.
Document repair and custom work processes with notes and photographs for internal records and client communication.
Mentor and provide guidance to apprentice jewelers, sharing advanced techniques and best practices to foster skill development within the team.
Stay current with emerging technologies, materials, and innovative techniques within the jewelry manufacturing and repair industry.
Occasionally interact with clients to provide expert consultation on complex repairs or to finalize details for bespoke creations.
Participate in team meetings to discuss production challenges, process improvements, and new design initiatives.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Advanced Stone Setting: Mastery of multiple setting styles including micro-pavé, channel, bezel, and complex fancy shapes.
Laser & Torch Proficiency: Expertise in operating laser welding machines for delicate assembly/repair and traditional torch soldering for a range of metals.
Metal Fabrication & Forging: Deep knowledge of working with precious metals (Platinum, Gold, Palladium) from sheet and wire to create handmade pieces.
Jewelry Repair Expertise: Ability to diagnose and execute a full spectrum of repairs, from simple chain fixes to complete restorations.
Casting and Wax Work: Proficiency in the lost-wax casting process, from carving waxes to finishing the final cast piece.
Finishing & Polishing: Skill in achieving a variety of pristine surface finishes on different precious metals.
Gemological Knowledge: Strong understanding of diamond and colored stone characteristics, durability, and care.
Blueprint/CAD Interpretation: Ability to read and accurately interpret technical drawings and 3D renderings for production.

Soft Skills

Exceptional Attention to Detail: A meticulous and precise approach to every task, ensuring flawless execution.
Problem-Solving Acumen: The ability to creatively troubleshoot and devise effective solutions for complex repair and fabrication challenges.
Patience & Steady Hand: The temperament and physical control required to work on delicate, high-value items for extended periods.
Time Management & Organization: Ability to self-manage, prioritize a queue of diverse projects, and consistently meet deadlines.
Artistic Sensibility: A strong eye for proportion, aesthetics, and form in jewelry design.
Strong Communication: Ability to clearly articulate technical concepts to non-technical team members and clients.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or equivalent. Hands-on experience and a proven portfolio are paramount.

Preferred Education:

Diploma or certification from a reputable jewelry trade school (e.g., GIA, New Approach School for Jewelers, North Bennet Street School).
GIA Graduate Jeweler or similar professional certification.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Jewelry Arts / Jewelry Design
Metalsmithing
Gemology
Fine Arts with a focus on sculpture/metalwork

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 5-10+ years of professional experience working as a bench jeweler or goldsmith in a fine jewelry environment.

Preferred:

A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a high level of skill in custom fabrication, intricate repairs, and advanced stone setting.
Verifiable experience working extensively with platinum and high-karat gold.
Prior experience in a luxury retail, high-end custom design studio, or trade shop environment.