How To Become A Jewellery Designer In South Africa & Subjects Needed

Filed in Article by on May 8, 2021 • 0 Comments

Are you looking for a way to become a Jewellery Designer in South Africa and you don’t know the subjects needed or even universities in South Africa where you can undergo the course? If yes, then this informative article is for you. You will be given detailed information about how to become a Jewellery Designer in South Africa, Universities and Subjects Needed.

What Does A Jewellery Designer Do?

Jewellery designers plan the style and pattern of jewellery, silverware and other decorative metalwork products. Many designers also make their own products using a wide range of materials, including metals, stones, woods, plastics and fibres.

They often create a variety of types of jewellery, but some specialise in designing certain types, such as necklaces or rings, or in using specialised techniques, such as enamelling, engraving, anodising or casting.

Jewellery designers may work using mass production techniques and machinery for a commercial manufacturer, concentrating on one part of the work, or as more highly skilled craftspeople producing an entire piece from beginning to end as a commission for a private client.

They may perform the following tasks: create design drawings and specifications for wearable or three-dimensional objects; shape metal and other materials, and assemble and finish articles using specialised tools and equipment; secure gemstones in settings; engrave designs; repair worn or broken jewellery; remodel old jewellery.

What Qualifications Do I Need?

There are many jewellery designers that have taught themselves, turning a hobby of many years into a career. Some have completed courses to improve their skills or to learn new ones. Another consideration is to complete an apprenticeship, working under an already successful jewellery designer.

Although it is not necessary, a degree in jewellery design or a similar area can enhance credibility and increase employment prospects. In most cases, a National Senior Certificate that meets the requirements for a diploma or degree course is a prerequisite. In the case of learnership programmes, a Grade 9 Certificate is required.

In order to qualify as an artisan, it is compulsory for graduates to sit for a Trade Test set by the Department of Labour. An institution that is accredited by the Jewellery Council of South Africa is definitely worth investigating, as is registering with this organisation once qualified.

What Subjects Do I Need?

Contact each institution for their specific requirements, but these subjects are recommended:

  • Art
  • Visual Arts
  • Design
  • Geography
  • Physical Sciences
  • Mathematics

Where Can I Study?

University of Johannesburg

  • National Diploma: Jewellery Design and Manufacturing; Bachelor of Technology: Jewellery Design and Manufacture
  • www.uj.ac.za

Cape Peninsula University of Technology

Tshwane University of Technology

  • National Diploma: Jewellery Design and Manufacturing
  • www.tut.ac.za

University of Stellenbosch

  • Bachelor of Arts (Visual Arts): Jewellery Design and Metal Design
  • www.sun.ac.za

Durban University of Technology

Central University of Technology, Harmony Jewellery School

  • National Diploma: Jewellery Design and Manufacturing
  • www.cut.ac.za

Ruth Prowse School of Art

Novus Jewellery Design Studio

College of Cape Town (Private FET)

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