What they do
Jewellery designers create and make beautiful and unique designs for jewellery, and other decorative or functional fashion accessories or products. The products they design may be mass produced or handcrafted, and may be made from materials such as metals, stone, woods, plastics or fibres.
Working conditions
Jewellery designers working for larger organisations in the jewellery industry usually work regular business hours (9-5), but those who work for themselves are able to create their own hours, depending on the amount of work they have. They usually work in a studio or workshop, which they may share with other designers. Their work may also involve travel to trade fairs or exhibitions.
Tools and technologies
Most jewellery designers work in studios where they may use specialised computer software to design pieces, or this may be done by hand, using technical drawing and sketching equipment.
Jewellery designers employ a wide range of specialised tools in the creation of their products. Most work with metals, so metal smithing tools such as blades, saws, pliers, soldering equipment, and brushes and files are part of their everyday tool kit. Those who work with gemstones may also use microscopes, computerised tools, and other grading instruments to examine gemstones or finished pieces of jewellery.
How do I become one?
Education and training
It is possible to work as a jewellery designer without any formal qualifications and get training on the job. However, entry into this occupation may be improved by obtaining a qualification in jewellery design or a related area.
The Certificate III in Jewellery Manufacture, Certificate IV in Visual Arts, Certificate IV in Design (Jewellery Studio), Diploma of Visual Arts (Jewellery Design) and Associate Degree of Design (Jewellery & Object Design) are offered at TAFE colleges and other registered training organisations throughout Western Australia.
You can also complete a degree majoring in product, furniture and jewellery design.
Masters of Information Management
No universities in Western Australia currently offer degrees in jewellery design or related fields.
Required registration and licensing
N/A