Education · 1 of 4
The path
College or an apprenticeship under a goldsmith, then years at the bench.
- 1
High school
Grades 10 to 12
Art, metalwork or tech classes. Any small, careful handwork helps.
- 2
Jewellery program or apprenticeship
1 to 2 years
Two year college diplomas include Georgian College in Barrie and Vancouver Community College, which asks for a portfolio. Or find a goldsmith who will train you at the bench.
- 3
Junior bench
1 to 2 years
Sizing, soldering, polishing, chain repair. Speed and cleanliness come with volume.
- 4
Stone setting and custom work
2 to 5 years
Prong, bezel, pave and channel setting. The skill that opens up custom work.
- 5
Gemmology (optional)
Part time, alongside work
The Canadian Gemmological Association's 4-level program trains you to identify and grade stones, and leads to the exams for the FCGmA (Fellow of the Canadian Gemmological Association) title.