Jewelry Designer and Gemologist

I still remember when we were all heading off to college and Jodi said she was going to the Gemoligical Institute of America in California.  I always thought to myself, “this is so perfect for her.”  She was always cutting edge in fashion and creative.  It has taken her far!

Q:  What is the title of your profession? 

A:  I am a Jewelry Designer & Gemologist.

Q:  What do you do?

A:  I currently sell jewelry to private clients.  I am a designer who works through production houses in California.  I also own a company and design a  line of mothers jewelry. 

Q:  Have you always worked in this field?

A:  Yes

Q:  Why did you choose this profession?

A:  I love jewelry and have a knack for design.

Q:  How would you define your profession?

A:  As an international award-winning designer, I am able to offer my clients my design talent along with the knowledge of a GIA certified Gemologist with a strong emphasis in excellent customer service.

Q:  Did you go to college or a trade school for this profession?

A:  I went to Gemologist School-Gemoligical Institute of America in California.  1 year.  Gemology with a short course in design.

Q:  Do you use your degree in your job? In what way?

A:  Yes, in sales, buying, appraising, along with building customer relations.

Q:  Can your degree be used as a basis for any other professions? What types?

A:  It opens the door to working in many fields related to the jewelry industry

Q:  Does your job require continued education?

A:  No

Q:  What is a day in the life of your job? Does it change day-to-day? Do you work with the public? 

A:  I have worked in retail dealing with the public as well as strictly private client work.  A retail environment is very different from owning a business and dealing directly with your own clients.  Building clientel in retail is very easy as you have many face to face opportunities that walk through the door.  Private client work is strictly word of month but can be very rewarding as you can operate the business as you like. I also enjoy marketing which is a very essential part of owning your own business.

Q:  What do you think makes a person successful in this profession?

A:  The ability to work well with clients along with a creative mind and sense of fashion.

Q:  Does your profession require travel? How much?

A:  No, but opens the door for travel such as trade shows.

Q:  What is the typical schedule/hours?

A:  The hours are open.

Q:  What is the most rewarding part of your job?

A:  Creating a beautiful piece of jewelry that makes my client very happy.  Also knowing I am likely creating a family heirloom for them to pass down to their children/family.

Q:  What do you dislike about your job?

A:  Not much, it’s a very rewarding profession.

Q:  What advice would you give to a child/student that is considering this profession?

A:  Make sure it is something you are passionate about and you will be successful. 

Q:  If you had to do it all over again, would you choose the same profession?

A:  Absolutely!

Q:  Are you having fun?

A:   Yes!

Q:  Do you receive a pension?

A:  No