A jeweler designs, creates, and repairs jewelry and precious metal items by hand and with specialized machines. The work is detailed and creative. You can start with a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Here is what the role involves, what skills matter most, and how to break in.
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Jewelers design and craft jewelry, rings, bracelets, necklaces, and other precious metal pieces. You'll work with tools and machines to cut, shape, and polish stones and metals. The job requires you to think creatively while controlling equipment precisely. You inspect your work and materials closely to meet quality standards. You also listen to customers, understand their needs, and communicate design ideas clearly. Problem-solving and attention to detail are constant parts of the day.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Workers earn a median of $52,540 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is softer here. Employment is projected to fall 6 percent from 2024 to 2034, though there are still about 4,000 openings a year from turnover.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
Most jewelers start with a high school diploma or equivalent. From there, you can pursue formal training through a jewelry program or apprenticeship, where you learn design, metalworking, stone setting, and machine operation hands-on. Some jewelers begin as assistants and learn on the job while working alongside experienced craftspeople. The path typically takes medium-level preparation and combines classroom instruction with practical experience. Your counselor can help you find programs and apprenticeships in your area.
Jewelers often enter the field through formal training programs or apprenticeships. Both routes have real value depending on your learning style and timeline, so if you are deciding between them, Pathly can map the jeweler and precious stone and metal worker path that fits you and work through the options with your counselor.
You do not need a license to work as a jeweler and precious stone and metal worker, but professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
You like working with your hands and tools to create tangible results. You enjoy precision, problem-solving, and bringing creative ideas to life through practical skill.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).