Because they are both primarily involved in the design of jewelry that contains both gold and precious stones, goldsmith and jeweler occupations are often lumped together. Because they were involved in refining and storing gold for future use, a goldsmith in the Middle Ages had the same reputation as a banker in modern times. Though ancient goldsmiths worked in guilds, the profession is now largely solitary, with 54 percent of goldsmiths being self-employed, according to the US Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Carving wax into a model for casting precious metals into jewelry is a common first step in the process. This, combined with the ability to cut and polish gemstones, necessitates a high level of precision and attention to detail in a goldsmith’s work if he or she is designing their own jewelry line. In the gold jewelry industry, soldering and engraving are also common tasks. A goldsmith also works with other precious metals, such as silver and platinum, in addition to gold.
The level of expertise required to work as a goldsmith varies greatly. Whether one works for a small business or for a large jewelry manufacturing company determines this. Some goldsmith practices are specialized services that focus on finishing and polishing jewelry rather than creating it from the ground up.
These specialized jobs have different names, which helps to narrow down the field. Bench jewelers work in jewelry stores and can spend their days cleaning, repairing, and fabricating jewelry. Mold and model makers are typically employed large jewelry manufacturing companies and specialize in the creation of goldsmithing tools. Engravers and polishers are finishing jewelers who personalize the final product and prepare it for sale. Assemblers put jewelry components together and set stones, while engravers and polishers personalize the final product and prepare it for sale.
Gold smithing is typically learned through trade and technical school metalworking programs, as well as on the job from other experienced jewelers. Though demand for goldsmiths is generally high, it fluctuates depending on how well the luxury goods economy is doing. Working with gold and precious gems is one of the oldest professions in the world, and many of the tools used in a goldsmith shop are the same ones used hundreds of years ago. Laser cutting and engraving systems, as well as computer design software, are exceptions.
Fine hand-eye coordination for working with small tools and intricate designs, artistic ability, and a good business sense for dealing with the market and customers are all required skills for a successful goldsmith. A gold metalworker’s job entails repairing jewelry for a large part of the time. This necessitates familiarity with previous jewelry design methods, casting techniques, and antique jewelry valuation for precious stones and gold quality. Drawing and sketching classes, as well as formal education in chemistry principles involving metals and crystal structures, should be considered. Other aspects of the profession, such as computer-aided design (CAD) and Internet marketing, can be used to boost an independent goldsmith’s sales.