What they do
Goldsmiths design and make gold jewellery, including jewellery with precious and semi-precious stones. This may involve cutting, filing, hammering, turning, spinning, bending and casting gold or other metals. They may use different methods to secure stones and engrave jewellery. They may also repair or remodel jewellery, and sell jewellery to the public. They maydesign and createpieces for commission, for a jeweller or mass production.
Working conditions
A goldsmith would normally work 38 hours per week, Monday to Friday in air-conditioned rooms. Some goldsmiths work on Saturdays. Goldsmiths who are self-employed or create jewellery for commission may work longer hours.
Tools and technologies
Goldsmiths need to be able to use tools, often very fine and specialised, for casting, bending, cutting and spinning gold and other metals. They may also need to use specialised lathes and tools for grinding and finishing gold jewellery.
Education and training
To become a goldsmith you usually need to undertake a jeweler apprenticeship. The apprenticeship usually takes 48 months to complete and is available as a school-based apprenticeship.
You can also gain a qualification in design, visual arts or a related area.
The Certificate IV in Design (Jewellery Studio), the Diploma of Visual Arts (Jewellery Design), the Diploma of Visual Arts and the Advanced Diploma of Visual Arts are offered at TAFE colleges throughout Western Australia.Browse courses through Jobs and Skills WA and search on the My Skills website to find a registered provider near you.
Apprenticeships and traineeships
As an apprentice or trainee, you enter into a formal training contract with an employer, enabling you to complete training towards a nationally recognised qualification. You spend time working and learning practical skills on the job and you spend some time undertaking structured training with a registered training provider.
You can do an apprenticeship or traineeship if you are a school-leaver, re-entering the workforce or as an adult or mature-aged personwishing to change careers. You can even begin your apprenticeship or traineeship while you're still at school.
If you are still at school you can access an apprenticeship through your school. Talk to your school's VET Co-ordinator to start your training now through VET in Schools. If you are no longer at school you can apply for an apprenticeship or traineeship and get paid while you learn and work.
Related Apprenticeship or Traineeships:
AP01870 JEWELLER
Page last updated April 08, 2024
