Need an All in One Jewelry Shop?
What Does a Bench Jeweler Do?
The phrase bench jeweler has an evolving meaning over the past few decades. It did at one time refer to a craftsman that had a narrow skillset, however, today, it has a broader meaning, and a modern one can perform a wide range of duties, such as repairs, jewelry design, and fabrication. A skilled one will be able to repair damaged jewelry, craft custom made pieces, and fabricate designs using individual specifications. They can also set stones, size rings, and do almost any other job that is associated with the manufacture of jewelry. With the exception of gem cutting, this is a completely separate specialty, although some bench jewelers will have some skill in this too.
A modern-day one will be expected to have various skills. There was a time when this term was only applied to craftsmen that were goldsmiths. In a standard jewelry workshop, a number of craftsmen that each had their own specialized skills, perform certain tasks. In this type of setting, a goldsmith is responsible for sizing and rounding rings, assembling pieces, setting stones and other such tasks that involved in the assembly and making of jewelry.
Under the more modern usage, a bench jeweler will have a broader set of skills, and in the case of the Jewelers of America guidelines for certification, this has been defined clearly. This organization will certify bench jewelers using a system of 4 skill grades.
The lowest grade is a technician, they will perform simple repairs, assemble pre-made pieces, finish cast pieces and set stones. Such a technician must be able to size and round rings too, in addition to fabricating basic elements of jewelry, including clasps and prongs used for setting stones.
To learn about the services and products Jacques Sandjian can provide you with, and if you are a resident of the Beverly Hills, CA area, please feel free to call us at (310) 273-1281 anytime.