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Where should a person go to learn more about jewelry making?
As soon as I started researching, I came across this site:
https://metalsmithsociety.com/pages/where-to-take-classes
I have not checked out the links, but the site is intensive and exhaustive and looks amazing.
Below are some educational opportunities when starting out a jewelry business or establishing yourself as a professional jeweler, or even if you are just want to expand your hobby or knowledge:
Gemological Institute of America (GIA)
They have several worldwide locations!
If you are looking for a Graduate Gemologist degree (G.G.), this is the place.
“Established in 1931, GIA is the world’s foremost authority on diamonds, colored stones, and pearls. A public benefit, nonprofit institute, GIA is the leading source of knowledge, standards, and education in gems and jewelry.”
American Gem Society (AGS)
https://www.americangemsociety.org/education/
"Since our inception in 1934, the American Gem Society (AGS) has been offering designations and credentials that support jewelry professionals in developing the knowledge and skills to perform their professional function in the best interest of their clients. When you work with a credentialed professional, you can rest assured that what you have purchased is represented fairly, your jewelry professional conducts business ethically, and that they are committed to their ongoing professional development."
Diamond Council of America (DCA)
https://dcalearning.org/courses/
"Professional Jewelry Education since 1944, DCA was founded as a forum to educate jewelry sales professionals and provide quality, affordable distance education that enhances sales associates’ ability to sell fine jewelry with expertise, integrity, and professionalism."
Cultured Pearl Association of America, INC. (CPAA)
Offers a class to become a Certified Pearl Specialist.
"Founded in 1957, the Cultured Pearl Association of America, Inc. is a nonprofit group comprising the finest manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, dealers, and suppliers of cultured pearls in the United States. A number of international pearl-producing groups called benefactors also back many of the CPAA’s efforts."
JCK
JCK puts on jewelry shows, but they also produce an award-winning magazine keeping you up on jewelry industry trends and changes.
“Covering breaking news and the consumer-led style trends that shape the jewelry industry, with in-depth content on everything from cutting-edge technology and retail practices to industry commentary and, of course, the latest in design and fashion, JCK connects retailers, manufacturers, designers and other industry influencers who create the jewelry business and drive it forward.”
The National Association of Jewelry Appraisers (NAJA)
“Encouraging Professionalism for the Jewelry Appraiser”
Interweave
"Interweave is one of the nation’s foremost art and craft media companies with businesses in magazine and book publishing, interactive and social media, television and video programming, online education, live events, and online shopping. Interweave delivers best-in-market content to enthusiasts when, where, and how they want. Interweave was founded in 1975 by Linda Ligon."
Rio Grande
One of the largest suppliers of jewelry making supplies. I refer people here not just for the supplies, but because they have a plethora of online tutorials and articles.
"We exist to support the bench jeweler, the jewelry designer, the retail jeweler, the jewelry manufacturer and the educator. We make their lives easier and more fun with innovative solutions and exemplary service so they can build and grow their businesses."
Jewelry Television (JTV)
https://www.jtv.com/jewel-school
Another supplier of jewelry making supplies. We have worked with this company and they are awesome! Lots of tutorials and tips for hobbyist and jewelers.
"Looking for inspiration for your next wearable work of art? We've got you covered with Jewel School™. Learn at your own pace with available content 365 days a year to enrich the crafting experience and provide all the essentials needed to create your one-of-a-kind designs. "
Mindat
This is a great place to learn more about the stone cabochons you put into your jewelry!
“Mindat.org is the world's largest open database of minerals, rocks, meteorites and the localities they come from.”
Don’t forget that there are several jewelry design classes at various online colleges and some local community colleges have in person classes. Sometimes your local rock shops or bead stores will offer special classes too.