As the jewelry industry and methods of manufacture continue to evolve from traditional handmade or historical production methods to the need for newer, high-tech techniques that solve production or competitive issues, makers of jewelry will need to seek and evaluate training methods that ensure workers have necessary skills and access to educational resources for future jewelry manufacture. Training resources for new skills learning may include off-site schooling, training by equipment suppliers or perhaps the development of specialized in-house skill/training programs and capabilities.This paper will explore the existing educational opportunities available to the varied segments of the jewelry making trade: design, volume manufacturers, goldsmiths, distributors, craft jewelers and retailers. We will challenge if these resources are relevant to today's jewelry-making requirements and attempt to assess how much new technology is being embraced and applied within the jewelry-making industry segments.

Author: Elizabeth Brehmer