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Appraiser, Craftsperson, Goldsmith, Jewellery Designer, Jewellery Maker, Model Maker, Salesperson, Silversmith, Stone Setter, Watch Repairer
In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.
The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used. Here is how this occupation has been classified over time:
In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2006 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.
Interest in precision working to examine, cut, shape and polish diamonds and precious and synthetic gems using optical instruments, lathes, laps and cutting disks
Interest in analyzing information to differentiate between stones, to appraise gemstones and diamonds, and to identify rare specimens
Interest in cutting, sawing and filing articles in preparation for further processing
To identify or change your interest codes, complete the Interests Exercise in CAREERinsite.
The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation.
It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective, and Social.
Each set of 3 interest codes for this NOC group is listed in order of importance.
A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.
A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.
To fill in or change the values for your abilities, complete the Abilities Exercise in CAREERinsite.
A Quick Guide
You are born with abilities that help you process certain types of information and turn it into action. These abilities influence which skills you can learn more easily.
The abilities or aptitudes shown for this NOC group come from the General Aptitude Test Battery (GATB). The GATB measures 9 aptitudes. It groups them into 3 categories: mental, visual, and physical.
The abilities scores range from 1 to 5, with 5 being stronger.
Jewellers design, create, or repair jewellery and set stones in mountings. Jewellery may be made of precious or semiprecious metals. The stones may be precious or synthetic. Jewellers may specialize in certain types of jewellery, such as silver or gold. Or they may specialize in specific operations, such as design or repair.
Jewellers also may be gemmologists. To learn more, see the Gemmologist occupational profile.
Jewellers work indoors, often seated at specially designed and equipped workbenches. Their hours are regular. However, they may work shifts in manufacturing firms, or evenings and weekends in retail. Overtime may be required during busy periods such as Christmas and the summer holiday season.
Jewellers need:
Designers, craftspersons, and model makers must be artistic. They must be able to visualize line, form, and colour in 3 dimensions. Jewellers working in retail stores also must have customer service skills.
Jewellers should enjoy using tools and instruments to perform precision tasks, analyzing information to perform appraisals, and using organized methods for their work.
In Alberta, many jewellers learn through a combination of short courses and on-the-job experience. Complete on-the-job training is hard to find because most shops specialize in a certain type of work. Some jewellery companies offer internships.
Most employers prefer to hire graduates of recognized training programs who already have some basic skills in the trade. Some workplaces expect applicants to supply their own set of hand tools.
Prospective jewellers should discuss their career plans with potential employers before enrolling in a training program. Different areas of specialty may require different training routes.
For example, jewellery designers need training in the visual arts. They also need computer skills for both one-of-a-kind and mass-production work. Post-secondary art programs offer the best opportunities to get this kind of training.
These programs most often require a high school diploma or equivalent. Some programs may consider mature students. They also require a portfolio showing artistic ability and skill.
Elsewhere in Canada, colleges and private vocational schools offer related courses and programs, such as the following:
The following schools offer programs or courses that are related to this occupation but are not required to enter the field.
To expand or narrow your search for programs related to this occupation, visit Post-Secondary Programs.
Completing a program does not guarantee entrance into an occupation. Before enrolling in an education program, prospective students should look into various sources for education options and employment possibilities. For example, contact associations and employers in this field.
There is currently no provincial legislation regulating this occupation in Alberta.
Jewellers work for jewellery stores, design studios, repair shops, wholesale companies, and manufacturers. Graduates of art and design programs often work for other artists or do other types of work while they establish their own design studios.
Advancement most often means becoming more specialized or building a business. Opportunities to advance to supervisory positions are limited.
Jewellers who wish to start their own retail businesses must make a large financial investment in a highly competitive industry. Setting up a design studio involves lower overhead costs.
This section shows the industries where the majority of people in this occupation work. The data is based on the 2016 Census.
In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.
In the 6344: Jewellers, jewellery and watch repairers and related occupations occupational group, 75.4% of people work in:
Employment outlook is influenced by a wide variety of factors including:
In Alberta, the 6344: Jewellers, jewellery and watch repairers and related occupations occupational group is expected to have a below-average annual growth of 0% from 2019 to 2023. In addition to job openings created by employment turnover, 0 new positions are forecasted to be created within this occupational group each year.
Note
NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For example, only some of the new positions to be created will be for this occupation. It also applies to other data for the NOC group such as number of people employed.
Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.
Jewellers’ incomes vary a lot. Factors include the type of work, the jeweller’s training and experience, and whether commission sales are involved. Jewellery store employees may be able to buy store merchandise at reduced prices. However, starting wages are usually quite low.
Canadian Jewellers Association (CJA) website: canadianjewellers.com
Gemmological Institute of American (GIA) website: www.gia.edu
Get information and referrals about career, education, and employment options from Alberta Supports.
Updated Mar 31, 2022. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook, and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.
