Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Workers
O*NET 51-9071.00 · SOC 51-9071
Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Worker is a risky career choice. Median pay is $53k a year with -3.2% projected growth through 2035 (declining) and about 3,700 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Cut and shape gemstones or metal using jeweler's saws and files
- →Solder metal components together to assemble rings or bracelets
- →Set diamonds or gemstones securely into metal mountings
- →Polish finished jewelry pieces using buffing wheels and compounds
- →Repair broken clasps, prongs, or bands on customer jewelry
Education & How to Get In
Most Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Worker positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Hands-on — labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed — alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Worker involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Worker?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering — personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Worker Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Workers is projected to decline 3.2% from 2025 to 2035, declining for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·25% creative/strategic tasks — AI augments, doesn't replace
- ·45% physical tasks — limited by robotics progress
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Worker make?
The median Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Worker earns $53k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Worker jobs?
Our model puts Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Worker at 34 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate — likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 25% creative/strategic tasks — AI augments, doesn't replace; 45% physical tasks — limited by robotics progress.
Is Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Worker a growing field?
Employment is projected to shrink 3.2% between 2025 and 2035, which is declining. That works out to roughly 3,700 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Worker?
Most Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Worker roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become a Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Worker?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Worker career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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