Bench Jeweler Certification
Classes
Diploma Programs
Employment
Housing
Registration
Tools/Materials
Bench Jeweler Certification
What is Jewelers of America Bench Jeweler Certification?
Jewelers of America (JA) offers certification through a set of bench tests at four levels. The hands-on tests involve typical tasks performed at a jeweler’s bench: jewelry repair, setting stones, and other fabrication techniques. Projects are scored by JA to a strict set of grading criteria. The optional exam is recommended for those who seek employment in the jewelry industry after graduation.
Does the Revere Academy offer JA Certification Exams?
The Revere Academy participated in the development of these tests and is an authorized JA test site. Our diploma programs are intended to provide the training needed to prepare candidates for testing at the first two levels. The Jewelry Technician diploma program leads beginners through a training curriculum in preparation for the first level of testing, JA Certified Bench Jeweler Technician. The Graduate Jeweler diploma program prepares students for the second level, JA Certified Bench Jeweler.
Classes
Does the Revere Academy have terms or semesters?
We have two semesters per year. Each includes an Open Session with dozens of short 3-day classes and an 8-week Jewelry Technician Intensive. We also offer a Masters Symposium each April.
As a beginner, which class should I take first?
Fabrication 1 is the perfect introduction to jewelry making. You will learn the basic skills necessary for jewelry making, such as sawing, filing, sanding, bending, drilling, soldering, etc., plus an introduction to all of the hand tools. This class is also a good refresher for novices who want a formal introduction to jewelry making and to the Revere Academy.
Other good classes for beginners are Jewelry Design, Rendering, Wax Modeling, Casting and Gemology. You can take any class as long as you have fulfilled the prerequisites. Fabrication 1 does not have any prerequisites.
How long do classes last?
Most classes last 3 days.
Is there a certain order to take the classes?
We try to schedule the classes so that they are offered in the best possible sequence during the term. We recommend starting with Fabrication 1 and continuing with Fabrication 2 and Fabrication 3. As long as you have taken the prerequisites, you can take any class.
What are the class hours?
All classes start at 9 am. Most classes end at 6 pm; some classes end earlier. Check the details of each class for the exact hours.
Do we get any breaks?
Short breaks are scheduled morning and afternoon. There is a 1-hour break for lunch.
What is the class size?
Each classroom is fully equipped for 15 students and an instructor. Last term class size ranged from 6 to 15 students.
Can I take classes individually?
Yes. As long as you have completed the prerequisites.
Diploma Programs
What diplomas does the Revere Academy offer?
The Revere Academy is authorized by the State of California to offer three diplomas: the Jewelry Technician, Jewelry Technician Intensive and the Graduate Jeweler. We also offer the Jewelers of America Bench Jeweler Certification Examination, which is optional.
How long does it take to complete each diploma program?
Diploma programs consist of several classes. Our diploma programs are designed so that you can learn new skills quickly and start your jewelry career as soon as possible. The Jewelry Technician Diploma Program, including all 11 required classes, can be completed in 6 to 8 weeks.
The Jewelry Technician Intensive diploma program includes additional information, such as an introduction to hand engraving, working with platinum, field trips, guests, a design project and more. The JTI program is 8 weeks long, meeting five days per week, Monday through Friday for 8 hours each day. JTI students may use the studio in the evenings and weekends.
The Graduate Jeweler is our most advanced diploma program. It includes all 11 of the JT classes plus 11 Graduate Jeweler classes. The GJ program can be completed in 12 to 16 weeks. If you prefer, you can take the Jewelry Technician Intensive followed by the remaining 11 required 3-day classes in the Open Session. If you choose this option, it will take approximately 5 months to complete the Graduate Jeweler Diploma.
What is the difference between the Jewelry Technician and the Jewelry Technician Intensive?
Jewelry Technician Diploma Program
The Jewelry Technician is a series of 11 individual 3-day classes completed in the Open Session. Because the classes are taken individually, scheduling is more flexible. We recommend this program for students who work full- or part-time and cannot afford to take weeks or months to complete their training. Classes are offered on the weekends and during the week, so you can pick the classes that fit your schedule.
Jewelry Technician Intensive
The Jewelry Technician Intensive program is really the best way to prepare for a career in jewelry. The Intensive’s full-time format covers all of the materials taught in the 11 required JT classes plus an introduction to platinum, hand engraving, guests, and a lot more.
Students in the JTI meet visiting jewelers, designers and manufacturers. During the JTI, students study and work together with the same group of people for 8 weeks. They often form a bond and do things together outside of class. This can be particularly important for those who come from out of town to study at Revere.
The two-month JTI course is the most effective way to build the skills and confidence to succeed as a bench jeweler. Class meets for 8 hours a day, Monday through Friday. A minimum of 2 hours per day open studio time enables you to practice what you learn.
Can anyone enroll in the JTI?
The JTI program assumes students have had some experience and have gained familiarity with basic jewelry tools and techniques. Fabrication 1 or previous experience is required to enroll in the JTI program. The material from Fabrication 1 is included in the JTI.
If I want to earn my Graduate Jeweler Diploma, can I take the Jewelry Technician Intensive?
Yes. There are 2 ways to complete the requirements for the Graduate Jeweler Diploma. You can take the 11 basic classes individually in the Open Session, or you can take the Jewelry Technician Intensive and complete the remaining 11 advanced classes in the Open Session.
Employment
Do you have a job placement service?
We offer informal job placement assistance. Employers from all over the country send information about jobs in the jewelry industry. We post these listings on our job board, which is available for students. The majority of the jobs are in the Bay Area and California. However, we get listings from all over the country and abroad. There is no guarantee that there will be a posting for a job in your area at the time you graduate. However, most of our serious graduates have found employment within a reasonable time after graduation.
What kind of job can I get after graduation?
Below is information on jobs in the jewelry industry from the Department of Labor:
“Some jewelers design or make their own jewelry. Following their own designs, or those created by designers or customers, they begin by shaping the metal or by carving wax to make a model for casting the metal. The individual parts then are soldered together, and the jeweler may mount a diamond or other gem, or engrave a design into the metal. Others do finishing work, such as setting stones, polishing, or engraving. Typical repair work includes enlarging or reducing ring sizes, resetting stones, and replacing broken clasps and mountings.
In manufacturing, jewelers usually specialize in a single operation. Mold and model makers create models or tools for the jewelry that is to be produced. Assemblers connect by soldering or fusing the metal and may set stones. Engravers may etch designs into the metal, and polishers polish the metal and stones to perfect the piece. In small retail stores or repair shops, jewelers may be involved in all aspects of the work. Jewelers who own or manage stores or shops also hire and train employees; order, market, and sell merchandise; and perform other managerial duties.” For more details about working conditions, employment and job outlook, visit the U.S. Department of Labor web site.
How much money would I make after graduation?
- National median hourly wage in 2006 is $14.15 per hour.
- Annual salary ranges from $17,590 to $53,240.
Most jewelers start out with a base salary. Once they become more proficient, they might begin charging by the number of pieces completed. Jewelers who work in retail stores may earn a commission for each piece of jewelry sold, in addition to their base salary. Many jewelers also enjoy a variety of benefits, including reimbursement from their employers for work-related courses and discounts on jewelry purchases. For more information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor web site.
Housing
Do you offer on-campus housing?
We do not offer campus housing. However, there is a wide variety of housing options within walking distance in downtown San Francisco. Residence clubs, such as the San Francisco Residence Club, are very similar to dorms and offer two meals a day in addition to a shared or private room. For those who prefer more traditional apartment style living, the Gaylord offers studio apartments that can be rented by the month on a short-term basis. If you are willing to do a bit more advanced planning, short-term apartment sublets and shared housing are available. Please see our housing and links pages for further information.
How much should I budget for housing?
Housing and food costs vary according to your lifestyle. If you choose to stay in a residence club, which includes two meals per day, expect to pay between $925-$2100 per month, depending on the type of room you choose. The average monthly rent to sublet a room in shared housing is approximately $800. The average monthly rent for a studio apartment is $1500.
Registration
When do I need to sign up for classes?
Registration for classes is on a first-come, first-served basis. Most classes fill quickly, so it is best to register as far in advance as possible. If you are planning to complete a diploma in the Open Session and one of the required classes is full, you will not be able to graduate. Please plan ahead.
How much do I have to pay when I register?
Full payment is required with registration for Open Session classes. You can reserve a space in the Jewelry Technician Intensive with a $1000 deposit. Half the remaining balance is due two months before the JTI program begins, and the balance is due one month prior to the first day of class.
How can I pay?
We accept payments by VISA, Master Card, personal and business checks, as well as money orders. See our Registration Information page for further instructions.
Is financial aid available?
We are a very small private school and we are not able to offer financial aid. We do not qualify for federal funding. However, there are several private and industry scholarships available.
What happens if I have to cancel a class?
All cancellations must be made in writing. Please see our refund policy.
What are your requirements for admission?
Students without a high school diploma or equivalent, who are enrolling in a diploma program, must pass the Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam (SLE). The California Bureau for Private Postsecondary and Vocational Education requires the Ability-to-Benefit testing for our diploma programs. The passing score for the Jewelry Technician Diploma is 13. The passing score for the Graduate Jeweler Diploma is 17. There are no additional requirements or prerequisites for admission other than the desire to learn new skills in the jewelry arts and/or to improve upon those already known, and a basic understanding of the English language. High school students who wish to attend may contact our registrar for further assistance. Aptitude Evaluation / Situational Assessment is available in certain circumstances.
Do you accept students from other countries?
We accept international students. Students from around the world have attended our classes. Our only requirement is that international students have a basic understanding of the English language. Our tuition is the same for foreign students as for all other students.
We are not able to offer I-20 student visas. However, our programs are short, so that people can come and study during a vacation in the U.S.
Do you accept vocational rehabilitation students?
Yes. We have had many rehabilitation students graduate from our program and immediately find jobs in the jewelry industry.
Tools/Materials
What’s so important about tools?
“The right tool is half the job.”
-Old German Goldsmiths saying
Tools are essential to jewelry work. Our classes require many tools.
Do I have to buy my own tools for class?
You will receive a tool list for each class in which you are registered. There are three ways to arrange for tools during class:
1. Bring your own and fill in with other required tools as needed.
2. Purchase the tools (from Otto Frei next door) or elsewhere.
3. Use the Academy’s tools ($100 deposit).
Who is Otto Frei?
Otto Frei was a Swiss watchmaker who founded a jewelry supply company almost 80 years ago. His grandsons continue the tradition of offering top quality hand tools (mostly German and Swiss). Their prices are competitive and, with an office 5 steps from our front door, convenient. Otto Frei has supplied Academy student tools for three decades. They stand by their products and are very easy to deal with if you have any problems.
Do I need my own tools?
Ultimately you will need all these tools. The advantage of having your own tools from the start is that you will be able to customize them as needed in class. And then you will have all the tools you need ready to use next time. Without tools, you are unable to do this work.
Can I use the Academy’s tools?
A set of hand tools is available for your use during class if you put down a refundable $100 deposit. These tools are listed in the second section of the tool list. There is a section for Optional tools. In addition, you may be required to buy some specific items, depending on which class you are taking.
How much do the tools cost?
The cost of tools varies from class to class and is not included in the materials kit fee. To complete the JT, JTI and GJ programs, budget a minimum of $500 for tools in addition to the tools available for use through the Academy.
What tools will I need at home?
You will need all of the required tools, all of the hand tools available for use through the Academy (a $600 value) and some larger pieces of equipment in order to setup a jewelry studio at home. Budget approximately $1000 -2500 for this equipment.
I have some of the tools on the list, but not an exact match. Do you advise that I bring my tools or buy new tools?
Bring all the appropriate jewelry tools to your first class. Your instructor will review the tool list and discuss options as well as answer questions. You can purchase the tools you need from Otto Frei, the tool supplier next door, at the beginning of class.
Can I bring my own metal?
To ensure that everyone has exactly the required bits and pieces, we provide all materials as part of the kit for each class.
Can I store my tools safely at the Academy?
We provide lockers. You can lock up your tools at night or take them home. You can also leave a toolbox on a shelf above your bench, out of the way when you are not using it. Rolling bags that take up floor space are discouraged. They will not fit in the lockers.
What is included in the materials kit fee?
The materials kit fee for each class includes the actual materials, such as the gold, silver and stones you will use in class. Substitution of your own materials is not allowed. All of the projects you make in class become yours to keep.