December 1 2015 - It would indeed be very difficult for most of us to identify a person who has no jewelry at all. Jewelry has existed from very ancient times, and can be seen in a myriad forms - a wedding ring, a bracelet, a necklace or even a simple brooch. Jewelry is a part of our history and tradition making its appearance in stories, legends and art not to speak of movies, however, the business of jewelry design and manufacture is today an industry very much like any other.

There are materials that need to be mined or manufactured, logistics to be established for shipping them form often faraway places, a process of design for the best allure, the actual process of manufacture, and the all-important marketing and sales to enable them to be displayed in the high street shops or sold online. Let's take a quick look at some of the careers that are available in this high-profile industry.

Retail Jewelry Sales

Those engaged in jewelry sales are the people engaged in actually dealing with customers. It is necessary for sales professionals to be friendly, even-tempered, patient, enthusiastic, and have excellent communication skills. They need to quickly assess the requirements of customers, some of which may be unstated, and suggest creative solutions that are optimal. Aspirants need to be persistent - this means they need to be determined but without being overly aggressive. A good salesperson will truly care about the interests of the customers and have a strong sense of ethics.

Manufacturing Jeweler

If you are passionate about jewelry and like to work with your hands then becoming a manufacturing jeweler could be an ideal option for you. Manufacturing jewelers as the name suggests craft the actual jewelry pieces either for customers directly or for the companies they are working for. Bench jewelers execute some of the smaller but no less important jobs like fixing chains, sizing or repairing rings, setting gemstones, etc. They are employed by jewelry manufacturers, retailers, and trade shops. Some jewelers design their own pieces for high-end customers while some may devote themselves to restoring and repairing antiques. Many jewelers now also engage in manufacturing recognition jewelry such as M pins and commemorative pins. You need to have an eye for detail, be able to work patiently and meticulously, and be extremely creative and focused.

Jewelry Appraiser

The job of jewelry appraisers is to evaluate the worth of contemporary and antique jewelry as well as wristwatches, and carefully document their descriptions. A detailed knowledge of the jewelry is necessary as customers and insurance companies rely on these for valuation and insurance, settling estates or even to provide the basis of records of individual or institutional jewelry collections. Apart from an intimate knowledge of the jewelry market, the job calls for extremely meticulousness and attention to detail. Usually candidates have a very strong interest in history and art. Employment is usually available with independent appraisal firms, insurance companies, and jewelry stores.

Jewelry Designer

Jewelry designers work with their individual clients or employers like jewelry manufacturers. Depending upon your interest and talent, you may focus on designing exclusive pieces for discerning high-net worth clients or you may work to design stuff for mass manufacturers or even manufacturers of costume jewelry. If are independent-minded, you can even start off a brand in your own name and sell them through brick 'n' mortar or online stores.

An extremely challenging occupation, it is not only necessary for candidates to have a very fine artistic and design sensibilities but also a thorough appreciation of the principles of design. Increasingly, the familiarity in working with various design software is becoming necessary as the work is often reiterative and delivery deadlines tight. Jewelry designers are expected to be highly aware of vintage as well as trending designs. They need to follow what is happening in the international fashion, and movie industries as also what is hot among celebrities of every type.

Author: Charles Monterey is the editor of an online journal on mass-market jewelry. He has written a number of articles on the emergence of recognition and award jewelry such as M pins and commemorative pins.