(NEW YORK) – Black in Jewelry Coalition announced its plans for a new jewelry-focused education program to prepare high school students for jewelry and gemologist careers, with exclusive sponsorship by Jewelers Mutual® Group. In recognition of the national shortage of bench jewelers, Black in Jewelry Coalition has collaborated with the Brooklyn STEAM Center to develop a curriculum for the 2023/24 school year on gem-setting and laser repair, while also exposing students to casting and molding. The shared vision is to inspire students and open doors for them in the captivating world of the gem and jewelry industry.
“Our collective goal is to make it known that these jobs exist and there’s a real need for new bench jeweler talent in the industry,” said Annie Doresca, Black in Jewelry Coalition President. “Jewelers Mutual’s support helps open up a new world of possibilities for students from all walks of life to fabricate their own unique designs in a studio into stunning, wearable works of art.”
With industry allies like Jewelers Mutual, Black in Jewelry Coalition continues to develop opportunities for jewelry professionals and up-and-coming jewelers to expand their knowledge and skillsets. Through Jewelers Mutual’s sponsorship of the newest bench jeweler program, students will gain knowledge about the diverse materials used in jewelry making, such as precious metals and gemstones, and learn the art of manipulating them. At the end of the program there will be a capstone event to display the students’ work and celebrate their completion of the training.
“We are incredibly proud of our 110-year legacy of support to the jewelry industry, and we are excited about this opportunity to join with the Black in Jewelry Coalition and Brooklyn STEAM Center to make a positive impact on the industry and the next generation of jewelers,” said Mike Alexander, Chief Operating Officer at Jewelers Mutual.
Upon completing the program, students will gain a solid foundation in the art of jewelry making and an appreciation for the skill and craftsmanship that goes into creating exquisite jewelry pieces. Whether they decide to pursue a career in the industry or simply enjoy it as a rewarding hobby, this experience will equip them with the necessary skills to craft one-of-a-kind creations.
Black in Jewelry Coalition will host some of the Brooklyn STEAM Center’s current programs, starting in October, and host the full bench jeweler program in the spring. For more information on the program, visit https://blackinjewelry.org/partnerships/.
