What education do you need for a career in jewelry design?
Most jewelers don't need more than a high school diploma and experience designing jewelry to start a career in the field. Through an online program, you can learn the basics of designing and crafting jewelry and start a portfolio of pieces you can share with potential employers. Many jewelers also choose to start their own business, which doesn't require you to have any specific training in the field, though if you open a physical store, you may need to require about specific licensing and regulations for small businesses in your area.
How much money do jewelry designers make?
The salary for a jewelry designer can vary based on whether they work in a shop for someone else or whether they start their own small business. However, according to national averages from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jewelry designers made $47,140 per year in 2022.*
What is the current outlook for the jewelry industry?
As more and more independent jewelry designers find they can reach a larger client base through selling their pieces online on sites like Etsy or Amazon Homemade, there may be less opportunity for work in physical retail stores. However, with many people still buying jewelry as gifts for loved ones or for themselves, you can start a thriving business online.
What is the career path for a jewelry designer?
Jewelry designers do not necessarily have a straight forward career path as other occupations may. Most jewelry designers start their own businesses and work toward expanding their client base and their sales. For those who do find work in a jewelry store, the career path may include advancing to a store manager or assistant.