Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Workers

Professionals in this field spend their time designing, fabricating, adjusting, repairing, and appraising jewelry, gems, and precious metals. Day-to-day tasks involve thinking creatively to design new pieces, controlling machines and processes to shape materials, and inspecting equipment or materials for quality. They must gather information, make decisions, and solve problems when working with delicate metals and stones.

This occupation strongly appeals to individuals with realistic interests who enjoy hands-on, practical work. Success in this role requires a high level of attention to detail, dependability, cautiousness, and innovation. Workers must apply knowledge of design, fine arts, production processes, and mechanical techniques. They also need strong active listening, critical thinking, and coordination skills to interact with clients and execute precise manual tasks.

To enter this career, workers typically need a high school diploma. The occupation is classified as requiring medium preparation, which often involves vocational training, an associate degree, or related work experience.

Students interested in this path can prepare by pursuing college majors such as fine and studio arts, or precision systems maintenance and repair technologies and technicians. There are no specific certifications, licenses, or professional associations listed as requirements to enter this field.

The median annual pay for jewelers and precious stone and metal workers was $52,540 in 2025. The lowest 10 percent of earners in this field made less than $35,580, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $87,540.

There were 22,440 people employed in this occupation. Between 2025 and 2035, employment is projected to decline by -3.2%. Despite this projected decrease in total jobs, the field is still expected to have 3,700 openings each year.