How to become a jewellery designer-maker
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- specialist courses run by a professional body
University
You can do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in:
- jewellery design
- jewellery and metal design
- 3D design crafts
- art and design
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- a foundation diploma in art and design
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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College
You can do short courses in specific types of jewellery making at college, or through a private course provider like a jewellery studio or workshop.
Courses vary in content so it's worth checking carefully to make sure they cover what you need.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
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Apprenticeship
You may be able to start in this job through a Jewellery, Silversmithing and Allied Trades Professional higher apprenticeship.
The British Academy of Jewellery offers apprenticeships in jewellery manufacture and design across England.
The Goldsmiths' Company offers apprenticeships to young people aged 16 to 21 in London and the south-east.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
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Other Routes
You can do short, specialist courses run by organisations like the British Academy of Jewellery.
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Career tips
Jewellery design is very competitive and not all vacancies are advertised. You may find it useful to make contacts within the industry to help find work. You could do this by going to trade fairs and exhibitions or joining online craft forums.
Further information
You can get more information on working in creative careers from Discover Creative Careers.