Online Schools with Jewelry Programs: How to Choose

Online jewelry education schools are differentiated by the particular purpose and focus of an institution's program, by what credentials they provide for students and by how well-regarded their program's credentials are in the industry.

How to Decide on an Online Jewelry School

Course Type and Availability

There are several types of courses available to those who wish to study jewelry. The programs that are available online are normally trade-focused, teaching students how to design or repair jewelry, or how to recognize, grade and use various types of gems and metal. The first question a student must answer when selecting a jewelry program to complete is what their focus will be. Jewelry crafting, repair, gemology and retail jewelry sales are all options for the prospective jewelry student.

Available Credentials and Program Results

Very few jewelry programs are available fully online, and hybrid programs are similarly rare. Those that are available are normally diploma programs focused on a trade education for those who wish to work their way into a jewelry-related profession. Full degree programs are rarely available, but some jewelry programs may offer credits that are transferrable to full degree programs. Others provide only course certificates. Those who wish to use their certificate as a credential to find a job in the jewelry business may find that the certificates granted by more authoritative institutions are more useful on the job market.

Online Jewelry Program Options

Jewelry Design and Repair Career Diploma

Students who choose an online jewelry design and repair career diploma can expect an online class with many different lessons that must be completed hands-on at home with the help of textbooks and study materials. Personalized instruction is usually offered via e-mail, instant messaging and online voice chats. Normally, the institution offering a course will provide all necessary materials or tell students how to obtain the required materials. Students will periodically be required to upload assignments and tests for instructors to review, and will receive feedback on their progress.

Accredited Jewelry Professional Diploma

This program is designed to teach students the skills and knowledge necessary for retail jewelry sales. Topics such as diamond value metrics, jewelry design and style, stone types and values and effective customer communication provide the focus for this type of diploma. Students communicate with instructors via the Internet, primarily through e-mail and forum use, and complete tests and assignments either online or on their computers for submission via e-mail.