The job market for jewelers in the United States

There are currently an estimated 37,700 jewelers in the United States. The jeweler job market is expected to shrink by -6.6% between 2016 and 2026.

How employable are jewelers?

CareerExplorer rates jewelers with a F employability rating, meaning this career should provide poor employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will need 1,900 jewelers. That number is based on the retirement of 4,400 existing jewelers.

Are jewelers in demand?

The U.S. job market for jewelers is in decline. The downturn is due principally to the fact that most jewelry is now manufactured outside of the United States to capitalize on lower production costs. This trend is adversely affecting employment of lower-skilled workers in this occupation. Some opportunities should be available for jewelers who are trained in design or repair and therefore qualified to replace the knowledge and expertise of retirees from the field. However, independent designers, even those with experience in computer-aided design (CAD), will continue to face strong competition from mass manufacturers able to automate their processes and offer a vast array of products at relatively low prices. In addition, non-traditional jewelry marketers, such as discount stores; mail-order and catalogue companies; television shopping networks; and online retailers, have further expanded consumer buying options and reduced the need for jewelers who work mainly in sales. While there will always be demand for customized and boutique jewelry, this niche market is not predicted to create many jobs or generate significant economic growth. Experienced jewelers may become master jewelers, supervisors, or managers with large manufacturers, design studios, or retail stores. Some may open their own businesses. As is the case with most nonessential items, sales of jewelry decrease in a slow economy. During these slowdowns, though, workers skilled in jewelry repair may fare better, simply because maintaining, repairing, and restoring jewelry is less costly than buying new pieces.

What’s the supply of jewelers?

The jeweler industry is concentrated in New York, California, Texas

Jeweler job market by state