School of Jewelry & Metal Arts

As a student of the School of Jewelry & Metal Arts, you will work with mentors who will help you to cultivate your unique, creative voice as you prepare to join one of the most exciting and innovative professions today. Professionals in the field guide you through techniques that range from the traditional in jewelry skills to the absolute latest in laser, kinetics, mixed media, electronics, and 3D modeling. Your final portfolio—based on your dynamic designs, a wide range of technical skills, and a strong business sense—will prepare you for the many job opportunities available to a graduate of the School of Jewelry & Metal Arts.

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What We Teach

Turn your love of wearable artwork into a profession. Apply techniques ranging from the traditional in jewelry skills to the latest utilizing laser cutters, electronics, and 3D modeling and printing. Focus on sustainability and eco-friendliness in materials and procedures. Learn about a variety of quality metals and gemstones appropriate for successful outcomes. Cultivate your artistic voice as you create innovative new pieces.

Jewelry Designer
Jewelry designers are usually drawn to their career because of a passion for artistic pursuits and fashion. Designers may work with jewelers and individual customers to create one-of-a-kind jewelry, or they work for manufacturers developing new pieces for the company’s collections. Some entrepreneurial designers go on to start businesses, selling designer jewelry under their own names.
Metalsmith
Metalsmithing can be a rewarding career for those who are creative and skilled with their hands. The metalsmith develops skills in shaping, texturing, forming, and joining metal through fabrication and casting. Those with metalsmith skills can go on to teach on the university level; design custom hollowware, jewelry and wedding rings; work in jewelry repair and stone setting; and collaborate with fashion designers.
Bench Jeweler
Bench jewelers use torches along with various hand and mechanical tools to join, cut, shape, and polish metal and set stones. A variety of chemical solutions are also used to add color and surface textures. Responsibilities may range from assisting with design problems, fabrication and casting, basic repair, and cleaning. Typical repair work includes enlarging or reducing ring sizes, resetting stones, and replacing broken clasps and mountings.
Student Story

Artistic Expressions, by Student Lucy Huang

In Jewelry & Metal Arts, we teach core metal design principles, fabrication, casting, wax working, welding, jeweler’s lathe, stone setting, textile techniques, mixed media, and enameling. Watch Lucy’s story and see the art and skills she’s developed.

Start Your Career Now

Your dream is within reach. Follow your heart and get started on the career of your dreams.

Facilities & Technology

The latest in software and equipment is essential to preparing you to enter the work force, which is why we keep up with current advancements in technology and industry practices that involve the jewelry and metal arts. Whatever the pros are doing and whatever the pros are using is what you will find in our classrooms and studios.

Faculty

Our instructors work in creative businesses, providing you with invaluable knowledge that comes from their personal expertise, as well as networking opportunities that can lead to internships and rewarding careers.

Alumni Success

Featured Alumni

Industry Partnership

Halstead

The School of Jewelry & Metal Arts is proud to partner with Hilary Halstead Scott, president of international jewelry supply wholesaler Halstead. The partnership helps students get guidance in entrepreneurship, careers, and obtaining professional grants.

Careers in Jewelry & Metal Arts

Graduates from the School of Jewelry & Metal Arts have a range of career opportunities to choose from. Our facilities, faculty, and hands-on learning approach are designed to provide you with the skills and tools needed for a successful career in the industry.

VIEW ALL CAREERS

Your career starts here.
Take the first step.
Or call 415-274-2222 to request more information about this program.
CAD Jewelry Designer
Create jewelry designs using software for 3D modeling and printing. Realize designs using printed wax and plastic models, CNC machines, milling, and laser cutting for use with modern jewelry production techniques. Work side by side with production teams to ensure manufacturing consistency in this dynamic career path.
Technical Designer
As a technical jewelry designer, you are a part of the design team creating drawings and digital files for use in production. Plan, iterate, and create maquettes for rapid prototyping in this exciting career path.
Casting Specialist
Work with a variety of clients during the design, prototype, and final production stages. Utilize your expertise to provide solutions for intricate designs and challenging concepts. Stay updated on the newest metal alloys and technologies to ensure the best possible metal castings.

Learn Online

Our revolutionary online courses provide the same rigorous education that we offer on campus with greater flexibility. Our online programs are purpose-built to deliver art and design courses. Study on your own time, at your own pace. Combine online and on-site classes.

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