Bench Jeweler Certification - Alabama Jewelers Association

By evaluating bench
jewelers according
to professional
standards, JA Bench
Jeweler Certification
provides identifiable
status within the
trade and increases
consumer trust and
confidence.
Bench Jeweler Certification
PROGRAM GUIDE
Jewelers of America
“I am glad to have certification from Jewelers of America,
because it helps me feel more confident in my abilities
when a customer brings in a piece of jewelry.”
– Timothy D. Hipkins
JA Certified Senior Bench Jeweler (CSBJ)
Galloway & Moseley, Sumter, SC
The JA Bench Jeweler
Certification Program
The JA Bench Jeweler Certification program establishes national standards and administers tests to
rate the talents and proficiency of bench jewelers at four levels. When you enroll in the program,
you simply have to take and pass a series of practical and written tests. The Test Guide (pages 6-13 in
this publication) gives you an overall idea of the skills and knowledge required to pass each level.
You will recognize the level at which you’ll be comfortable when you review the general categories,
required bench tests and sample questions.
Benefits of JA Bench
Jeweler Certification
• Increases credibility
with customers.
• Advances professional
career growth.
• Gives the retail storeowner a
means of distinguishing its
shop from the competition.
• Sets your store and its
craftsmanship apart – with
the status that comes from
having JA Certified Bench
Jewelers working for you.
The Four Levels of JA Bench Jeweler Certification
There are four levels of JA Bench Jeweler Certification. These levels of certification mirror a career
path for the bench jeweler generalist beginning with the basic entry-level skills and moving
through progressively higher stages of proficiency, speed, and assurance to the peak of professional
maturity and knowledge:
First Level:
JA Certified Bench Jeweler Technician (CBJT)
Tests at this level reflect skills and
knowledge generally expected of a
trained entry level bench jeweler
generalist performing jewelry repair with
about one year’s experience.
Third Level:
JA Certified Senior Bench Jeweler (CSBJ)
Tests at this level reflect moderate to
advanced skills and knowledge. The
candidate for this level must show mastery
of both first and second level skills and
proficiency in some additional areas.
Second Level:
JA Certified Bench Jeweler (CBJ)
Tests at this level reflect skills and knowledge generally expected of a bench jeweler
generalist performing most jewelry repairs
with about two or more years of experience.
Fourth Level:
JA Certified Master Bench Jeweler (CMBJ)
This is the highest level of JA Bench Jeweler
Certification. Candidates at this level must
demonstrate mastery of all skill levels.
If you feel confident about most of the test areas for a particular level but haven’t done
much work lately in one or two of the types of skills being tested, you can practice that kind
of work until you feel ready. Note that the tests also measure speed. Many of the skills tested
at lower levels are tested again at higher levels but with shorter amounts of time allowed
for completion.
Do I Have to Take the Tests in Order?
No. You may go directly to the level you feel best represents your current skills and abilities. To start
at the Master Bench Jeweler level, you first must pass the Master Bench Jeweler Prerequisite Test, a
four-and-a-half-hour exam with a nominal fee, covering material from the previous level tests.
Who Qualifies for Bench Jeweler Certification?
JA Bench Jeweler Certification is open to all bench jewelers. JA members and non-members alike
may enroll in the program. Fees are reduced for JA members.
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“I am proud to have earned certification from Jewelers of
America, and I enjoy the credibility that goes along with it.
The program was challenging and allowed me to hone my
skills and take additional pride in my work. I would like
to see all American jewelers take part in this program.”
– Bill Holman
JA Certified Master Bench Jeweler (CMBJ)
William Holman Design Group, Dallas, TX
Why Was Bench Jeweler Certification Developed?
An industry task force developed the program with the goal of raising the level of professionalism throughout the industry – benefiting jewelers, store owners, and consumers by ensuring
confidence in the ability of the certified bench jeweler to perform quality work.
What Type of Bench Jeweler Is This Program Aimed At?
The JA Bench Jeweler Certification program is directed to the bench jeweler generalist and tests
a wide variety of skills. Certification requires quality performance in each area. It is not realistic,
however, to expect the generalist bench jeweler to have the same proficiency and expertise as
the specialist in every area, and therefore, the individual bench test times have been made
flexible. For example, a specialist in stone setting might find the expected time for the practical
bench test that includes setting stones to be absurdly generous, but probably would not be able
to perform as well or as quickly in the other practical areas of testing.
Access to JA’s Information, Education and Enrichment Tools
Jewelers of America provides a number of programs and services to support the bench jeweler
in his or her work – before, during, and after participating in certification. Here's a sampling of
some of these programs and services:
Masters Mentoring Videos – Jewelers of America has produced a series of training videos in
which JA Certified Master Bench Jewelers demonstrate in detail various bench skills. The
videos, available from JA, cover Flush Setting Round Gemstones, Prong Setting Pear Shaped
Gemstones, Prong Setting Round Brilliants, and Ring Sizing Karat Gold.
Fabricating With Platinum Video – This video, produced by Jewelers of America in conjunction
with the Platinum Guild International, features JA Certified Master Bench Jewelers
explaining and demonstrating different methods of designing, creating and repairing
fine platinum jewelry.
The JA Professional’s Guide to Fine Jewelry Craftsmanship – A professionally illustrated
counter reference for sales professionals, bench jewelers and consumers features technical
contributions from JA Certified Master Bench Jewelers.
JA BenchAdvisor – This special section of JA’s Web site is specifically dedicated to bench
jewelers. It contains informative, educational articles featuring technical contributions from
JA Certified Master Bench Jewelers. Visit the JA Members section of the JA website,
www.jewelers.org.
Education at State and Regional Affiliate Events – JA affiliates are an important source of
information. Many educational opportunities for bench jewelers are available at events
organized by JA’s 42 state and regional affiliates. These forums allow bench jewelers to
share interests, concerns, and solutions to common problems.
Why Get Certified?
Certification gives the bench jeweler an instantly recognized standing in the profession –
a means of clearly communicating your skill level to a potential employer, a colleague, or a
customer. It also entitles you to use the JA Bench Jeweler Certification logo in all your
advertising, on your premises, and on your Web site. Beyond the immediate and practical
value of JA Bench Jeweler Certification is the more subtle benefit of enhancing your own
self-esteem and sense of professional achievement by challenging yourself with
ever-higher goals.
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JA Bench Jeweler
Certification
Encourages Growth
and Advancement
• Certification offers new areas
for personal development
by challenging you to
demonstrate your proficiency.
• It helps you identify areas in
which you might need to
improve – helping you stretch
yourself and grow.
“Certification instills instant trust with customers, who
respect the knowledge of a certified jeweler. In our store,
we have our employees’ JA certificates framed and
displayed on the wall, and we also have the bench tests
on display in one of our showcases.”
– Gerald Ledbetter
JA Certified Master Bench Jeweler (CMBJ)
Troy Vinson Jewelers, Fort Worth, TX
Participating in
Professional Certification
Practical Bench Tests
JA Bench Jeweler
Certification Gives You
Increased Confidence
• Certification validates your level
of knowledge, skill, and ability,
and thus enhances your
confidence about being able
to do a good job.
• The knowledge that you are
good at what you do increases
your job satisfaction.
• Certification gives you
identifiable status within the
jewelry trade; your status can
be recognized publicly.
JA Bench Jeweler Certification bench tests let you show your proficiency in performing a variety of
tasks expected of competent bench jewelers working at the level in which you‘re being tested.
JA supplies the precious metal materials and stones needed for each bench test and gives you
instructions for doing the work. The bench test envelope also includes the estimated or expected
time for completing that test. These times are guidelines only; you can take more or less than the
estimated time to perform a specific bench test. However, your total test time must fall within the
limits for the level you‘re taking.
Written Tests
After passing the bench tests, the candidate takes written exams to show familiarity with terms and
concepts needed in everyday work. These tests are of two types:
Written exam from memory – This is a “closed book” test where you must remember or figure out
the answer from your experience. These questions are based upon everyday situations or
experiences, and memorization is not required.
Written exam with reference material – This is an “open book” test, allowing you to use reference
books or materials to find the answers to the questions. Again, these questions are based upon
information that you need or have access to day to day.
Testing at Your Own Bench
You take the practical bench tests at your own bench using your own tools and equipment. JA
supplies test materials. You and your test proctor decide the schedule you‘ll use for your test within
the total time frame requirements. You must complete the entire level‘s bench and written testing
within one year of the date you enrolled. You must complete all the bench tests within the total
time limit for the level. Your proctor tracks the time you‘re taking for each test. JA keeps a record
of the hours spent and hours remaining for the level you are working on.
What If I Don’t Think I’m Ready? How Much Should I Study?
No studying is required! Certification testing has two primary goals – the first is to validate what
you already know, and the second is to help you discover areas in which you can improve. Included
with the results of every certification exam is a detailed performance evaluation that covers the
details missed. As a tool for developing skills, knowledge and professionalism, think of certification
testing as the beginning of an exciting educational journey that will lead you to higher levels of
achievement and reward.
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JA Bench Jeweler Certification Program Application
Name (as it should appear on certificate)
Date of Application
Company
Address
Title/ Position
City
State
Zip Code
( )
Business Phone
( )
Fax
Store’s E-Mail
Store’s Website Address
TEST LEVEL AND APPLICABLE FEES
Circle test level option and applicable fees below:
First Level: Bench Jeweler Technician
JA Members
Full Test
Or
Non- Members
$745 Full Test
Or
Third Level: Bench Jeweler
JA Members
Non- Members
$865
Full Test
Or
$1400
Full Test
Or
$1520
Section 1
$250 Section 1
$290
Section 1
$470
Section 1
$510
Section 2
$250 Section 2
$290
Section 2
$470
Section 2
$510
Section 3
$245 Section 3
$285
Section 3
$460
Section 3
$500
Second Level: Bench Jeweler
JA Members
Full Test
Or
Fourth Level: Master Bench Jeweler
Non- Members
$1050 Full Test
Or
JA Members
Non- Members
$1200
Full Test
Or
$1400
Full Test
Or
$1520
Section 1
$365 Section 1
$415
Section 1
$470
Section 1
$510
Section 2
$365 Section 2
$415
Section 2
$470
Section 2
$510
Section 3
$320 Section 3
$370
Section 3
$460
Section 3
$500
Application continued on next page…
Payment: Total Amount(s) Circled Above
___ Check Enclosed (Payable to Jewelers of America)
Credit Card: __ VISA
__ MASTERCARD
Total Amount $____________
___ AMEX
Card Number: _________________________________________________________________
Name on Card
Expiration Date
Signature
Today’s Date
Proctor Information
(For testing at your own location, provide the name of your proctor.)
Name
Title/ Position
Business Address (need street address)
City
( )
Day Phone
State
( )
Fax
Zip Code
E-Mail
Acknowledgement
I hereby certify that all information on this application is accurate to the best of my knowledge.
Signature
Mail or Fax to:
Jewelers of America, Inc.
52 Vanderbilt Ave. 19th Floor
Fax:
(646) 658-0256
Ph:
(800) 223-0673
(646) 658-0246
www.jewelers.org
Attn: Certification
New York, NY 10017
“Certification is a necessity for the professional bench jeweler.
It not only establishes confidence in yourself, but in the
hearts and minds of customers as they entrust their precious
jewels to your care.”
– Steece Hermanson
JA Certified Master Bench Jeweler (CMBJ)
Galloway & Moseley, Sumter, SC
Selecting a Proctor
You will need a proctor to administer your test. Your proctor can be anybody other than a
member of your own family, an immediate co-worker or owner of the business where you work.
The proctor does not have to be a professional jeweler. Some people who might make good
proctors include school teachers, librarians, or accountants. Choose a responsible person whom
you’ll feel comfortable with. You might wish to show your potential proctor the following list of
responsibilities associated with proctoring your bench tests.
A Proctor’s Responsibilities
• Arrange with the candidate a suitable test schedule.
• Receive the packaged bench test kits supplied and sent by JA.
• Distribute the test kit materials at test time.
• Be present and monitor all test sessions to ensure that the test
section falls within the total time limit allowed, and that the test
taker receives no outside help either verbal or physical while
taking the test.
• Track and report on the Time Sheet the start, end, and total
test times for each section.
• Collect all test kit materials at the completion of the test.
• Sign the Proctor Verification Form.
• Make sure the test taker signs the Test Verification Form.
• Package and return the completed tests and forms to JA in the
shipping packages provided.
Arranging Payment for the Proctor
The proctor’s role in the testing process involves a time commitment and the performance of the
tasks listed above. Consequently, it is standard practice to compensate the proctor for this work.
Payment for the proctor is the responsibility of the certification candidate or employer. Be sure
to reach agreement with your potential proctor on appropriate compensation.
Steps for Participating in the Bench Jeweler Certification Program
Getting started in the JA Bench Jeweler Certification is quick and easy.
1. Review the Test Guide (pages 6-13 of this publication) and determine which level best fits
your current knowledge and skill.
2. Select an individual who would be willing and able to proctor your test.
3. Complete the application form included in this publication. Feel free to make additional
copies, or contact Jewelers of America at 800-223-0673 or visit www.jewelers.org.
4. Send the Application Form and your payment to Jewelers of America.
5. JA will process your application and ship your test and all test materials to your proctor.
6. The date your proctor receives the test is the starting date for your enrollment period. You
must take and pass the Bench Jeweler Certification test within one year of this date.
7. When JA receives your completed test from your proctor, it will be graded and you will
receive your test results.
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JA Bench Jeweler
Certification Increases
Consumer Confidence
• Certification was developed
by Jewelers of America to
increase public trust in our
profession. A JA Bench Jeweler
Certification decal or certificate
displayed in your store tells
your customers that they
can rely on the skills and
knowledge of the store’s
professional bench staff.
• This translates into more
business for you – not only
as customers increasingly use
your repair shop, but also
as they come to know and
trust the quality of your
merchandise in general.
The JA Bench Jeweler Certification Test Guide
To help you assess the level at which you want to apply for certification and to help you prepare for testing, this section gives you
detailed information about the bench test expectations for each level. All the practical bench tests are listed for each level. There is
one written closed book exam and one written open book exam for each level. The time limit for each written exam is one hour.
One sample closed book exam question and one sample open book exam question is listed for each level.
First Level: JA Certified Bench Jeweler Technician
Candidates for this level must pass all of the following bench tests. The total time allowed to complete all first level bench tests is
14 hours. As with all bench tests, you are required to finish each stage of work according to instructions, and note any stone
damage prior to setting on the form provided on the job envelope.
Practical Tests
Bench Test #1
Repair by reassembling and resoldering a number of
different types of chains and clasps.
Estimated time: 3 hours.
Bench Test #4
Repair the damaged tongue of the box clasp and install a
new wire for figure-8. Estimated time: 30 minutes.
a.
b.
Bench Test #5
File, finish, and size ring casting.
Estimated time: 1.5 hours.
c.
d.
e.
Bench Test #2
Assemble a pre-made bail and bezel and set an oval cabochon stone. Estimated time: 2.5 hours.
Bench Test #6
Solder and assemble earrings, set two stones,
and finish. Estimated time: 1 hour.
Bench Test #7
Repair ring: re-tip three prongs to match existing prong.
Estimated time: 2 hours.
Bench Test #3
Prepare oval head and fit to shank; size ring and set oval
stone. Estimated time: 1.5 hours.
Bench Test #8
Assemble bracelet links so they are flexible; set three
stones and finish. Estimated time: 2 hours.
Written Portion
Sample closed book question:
Identify the best solder used when sizing a 14 k yellow gold
ring up one size with no previous solder joints in the shank
a. 14 k yellow easy
b. 14 k yellow hard
c. 14 k white extra hard
d. 18 k yellow extra easy
Sample open book question:
What reaction would you observe if you placed a drop of
nitric acid on a sheet of copper?
a. no reaction
b. a mild red reaction
c. a creamy white reaction
d. a violent green effervescing reaction
(for answers, see page 9)
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Second Level: JA Certified Bench Jeweler
A candidate for this level must pass all of the following bench tests. Total time allowed to complete all second level bench tests is
15.5 hours. As with all bench tests, you are required to finish each stage of work according to instructions and note any stone damage prior to setting on the form provided on the job envelope.
Practical Tests
Bench Test #1
Prepare the mounting, size the ring, and channel-set
round stones. Estimated time: 2.5 hours.
Bench Test #5
Size rings and set fancy-shape center stone and tapered
baguettes; solder rings together. Estimated time: 4 hours.
Bench Test #2
Size the pre-finished ring and set three stones of varying
sizes according to specifications. Estimated time: 2.5 hours.
Bench Test #6
Clean up and size casting of man's oval ring. Flush-set
two round stones on either side of center oval stone.
Estimated time: 3 hours.
Bench Test #3
Assemble platinum head to 14-karat gold shank; set one
stone; install and size adjustable shank.
Estimated time: 2 hours.
Bench Test #7
Cut and weld platinum wedding band with seamless solder. Estimated time: 1 hour.
Bench Test #4
Re-solder posts to hollow earrings and refinish.
Estimated time: 30 minutes.
Written Portion
Sample closed book question:
To avoid damaging inlaid turquoise in a sterling silver ring
when sizing it up one size
a. use lead solder to rejoin the shank
b. solder the shank normally since the stones
are not heat-sensitive
c. pack modeling clay around the stone to protect
it while soldering
d. place the stone portion of the ring under water
to protect it while soldering
Sample open book question:
In the United States, the lowest legal gold karatage is
a. 9 karat
b. 10 karat
c. 14 karat
d. 18 karat
(for answers, see page 9)
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Third Level: JA Certified Senior Bench Jeweler
A candidate for this level must pass all of the following bench tests. Total time allowed to complete all third level bench tests
is 18.5 hours. As with all bench tests, you are required to finish each stage of work according to instructions and note any stone
damage prior to setting.
Practical Tests
Bench Test #1
Following specifications, saw hexagon and lay out
pattern for stone setting, then pavé set 7 stones,
bright cut, finish, and mill-grain.
Estimated time: 2 hours.
Bench Test #4
Make a pin from heads provided; then install the pin
stem and joint, install the safety catch, and set all
stones. Estimated time: 4.5 hours.
Bench Test #2
Channel-set straight baguettes in ring.
Estimated time: 5 hours.
Bench Test #5
In accordance with instructions, make a platinum wire
pendant with a movable bail; set pear-shaped stone.
Estimated time: 3 hours.
Bench Test #3
Carve wax model according to specifications and
illustration for enclosed stones and specified finished size.
Estimated time: 4 hours.
Written Portion
Sample closed book question:
When performing pavé setting, you
a. burr each seat to the same depth regardless of the
stones' crown height
b. do not need to have every bead raised in contact with
any part of the stone
c. do not sharpen your gravers since it takes too much time
away from setting
d. want each bead to be in contact with the crown and
match in height, width, and shape
Sample open book question:
When mixing acids:
a. always add acid to water
b. pour unused acid down the drain when finished
c. always store acid in a closet where there
is no ventilation
d. keep methane acid powder nearby to use
in the event of a spill
(for answers, see page 9)
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Prerequisite Test for the Fourth Level
The prerequisite test is required if you are starting with the fourth level and have not been certified in the third level. Total time
allowed to complete the prerequisite bench tests is 4.5 hours. As with all bench tests, you are required to finish each stage of work
according to instructions and note any stone damage prior to setting. The prerequisite does not have a written exam requirement.
Practical Tests
Bench Test #1
Repair by reassembling and re-soldering a number of
different types of chains and clasps.
Estimated time: 3 hours 10 minutes.
Bench Test #3
Carve wax model according to specifications and illustration for enclosed stones and specified finished size.
Estimated time: 50 minutes.
Bench Test #2
Prepare the mounting, size the ring,
and channel-set round stones.
Estimated time: 30 minutes.
Fourth Level: JA Certified Master Bench Jeweler
A candidate for testing at this level must first receive certification as a Certified Senior Bench Jeweler (third level) or pass the Master
Bench Jeweler Prerequisite Test. A candidate for this level must pass all of the following bench tests and written exams to become a
JA Certified Master Bench Jeweler. You may take one of the three bench tests for this level without a proctor, on the honor system;
you will need a proctor for the other two tests. Total time allowed to complete all fourth level bench tests is 36 hours. As with all
bench tests, you are required to finish each stage of work according to instructions and note any stone damage prior to setting on
the form provided on the job envelope.
Practical Tests
Bench Test #1
Following the design illustration, fabricate a pendant
with filigree work on three sides and a bail on top. Set
the emerald-cut center stone and bead and bright cut
set the side stones in the bail. Estimated time: 12 hours.
Bench Test #3
Following the design illustration, fabricate a karat gold
and sterling silver pill box with a slight dome and crossed
design. Set (bead and bright cut) stones in the crossed
pattern across the domed top portion of the box. Design
and fabricate a closure. Estimated time: 12 hours.
Bench Test #2
Following the design illustration,
fabricate a karat gold and platinum
three-stone ring and set two straight
baguettes and one oval center stone.
Estimated time: 12 hours.
Written Portion
Sample open book question:
If you use the same sanding materials on a platinum and
karat gold article of jewelry, you will have
a. oxidation of metals
b. improperly polished gold
c. loss of control of the rate of finish
d. fast wear on the sanding materials
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Answers to sample closed book and open book
written portion questions:
First Level:
b,d
Third Level:
d,a
Second Level: b,b
Fourth Level: c,c
Sample closed book question:
When sizing a platinum/iridium ring up one size and for a
seam that cannot be detected when completed, use:
a. 18 k hard white gold solder
b. 1100º C easy platinum solder
c. pure platinum and weld the seam
d. silver solder and rhodium-plate the ring to hide the joint
Grading the Tests
JA sends the completed practical tests (anonymously, only identified by a six-digit number) to approved graders who work in a
controlled environment using a comprehensive grading system consistent with quality standards for jewelry repair and manufacturing.
Graders use a multi-level procedure to ensure thorough evaluation and maximum accuracy, fairness, and consistency in reviewing and
assessing your work.
Following is an example of the Performance Evaluation showing the tasks and standards of acceptability in the Third Level Bench
Test #5: Platinum Pear-shaped Pendant. Some of the tasks are shown in shaded areas; the shading indicates that these items are
Mandatory Acceptance Tasks, considered basic skills for someone of this proficiency level. The candidate must demonstrate acceptable
work in each of these tasks or will not pass the test.
To pass a bench test, a candidate must achieve acceptable ratings for at least 75% of the points tested. The candidate must pass every
bench test in order to receive certification.
JA will send you the results within 30 business days of receiving your test. You will get more than just an Acceptable/Unacceptable
response. To make this program as valuable as possible, the skills assessment or grading phase includes feedback about your test
performance. You will receive a report identifying your ratings for each test, and you can use this information to improve the quality
of your work in areas that need strengthening - regardless of whether or not you pass the test.
The Sample Performance Evaluation that follows gives you an idea of how helpful the feedback can be. The candidate in this
example, while passing this bench test, could work on improving his soldering techniques - tasks for which he received check marks
in the Unacceptable column.
Sample Performance Evaluation
Third Level
Bench Test # 5
Platinum Pear-shaped Pendant: Estimated time - 3 hours
In accordance with instructions, make a platinum wire pendant
with a movable bail; set pear-shaped stone.
Task
Fabrication
Description
Bail
Jump rings
Acceptable
Bail straight and even
Bail symmetrical
✔
✔
Bail in proportion to head
and stone size
Bail movement even
and smooth
✔
Jump rings in proportion
to head and prongs
Jump ring wire drawn
to reduce diameter
✔
✔
10
Unacceptable
Bail not straight and even
Bail not symmetrical
Bail not in proportion to
head and stone size
Bail movement poor or
out of balance
Jump rings too small or large in diameter
and not in proportion to the head
Jump ring wire not drawn
to reduce the diameter
✔
Task
Soldering
Description
Head
Junction of
prongs and
gallery wires
Jump ring
junction
Point junction
Bail
Setting
Polishing
& Finishing
Delivery
Seats/Bearings
Head and
prongs
Bail
Jump rings
Head
and prongs
Bail
Jump rings
Overall piece
Overall piece
Acceptable
Prong angle between 65º and 75º
Lower gallery pear-shaped
Upper gallery wire pear-shaped
Lower gallery wire slightly smaller
than upper gallery wire
Space between upper and lower
gallery wires proportionate
Space between upper and lower
gallery wires parallel
Prongs placed symmetrically
and aligned properly
Excess solder at fewer
than two prong junctions
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
No excess solder
Unacceptable
Prongs angle not between 65º and 75º
Lower gallery not pear-shaped
Upper gallery wire not pear-shaped
Both upper and lower gallery wires
the same size or the lower too small
Space between upper and lower gallery
wires too shallow or too deep
Space between upper and lower gallery
wires not parallel
Prong placement not symmetrical
and out of alignment
Excess solder visible to the
unaided eye at two or
more prong junctions
Excess solder visible to the unaided eye
No excess solder at point junction
on upper or lower gallery wire
No excess solder at the junction of
the jump ring and the bail
Seats/bearings cut even and smooth
Seats/bearings do not have “rags”
or flashes of metal from filing
or burring
Proper amount of contact between
the stone and the seat at each prong
✔
✔
Uneven girdle accommodated
Stone within 5º of being level
Prong contact between 33% and 50%
✔
✔
✔
Portion of prong over crown in full
contact with the crown
✔
Portion of prong over crown not
in full contact with crown
Stone not damaged or abraded
Prongs unscratched and lustrous
✔
✔
Stone damaged and abraded
Prongs scratched or dull
Bail unscratched and lustrous
Jump rings unscratched and lustrous
No tool marks on gallery wires
and prongs
No tool marks on bail
No tool marks on jump rings
No dirt, grease or water spots
Prepared for delivery
✔
✔
Bail scratched, dull or unfinished
Jump rings scratched, dull or unfinished
Tool marks on gallery wires and prongs
✔
✔
✔
✔
Tool marks on bail
Tool marks on jump rings
Dirt, grease or water spots
Not prepared for customer delivery
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✔
Excess solder at the point junction of
the upper or lower gallery wire
Excess solder at the junction of
the jump ring and the bail
Seats/bearings uneven and smooth
Seats/bearings have “rags” or flashes
of metal from filing or burring
✔
✔
✔
✔
Unequal or no amount of contact
between the stone and the seat
at each prong
Uneven girdle not accommodated
Stone more than 5º out of level
Prong contact below 33% or above 50%
✔
Grading Summary – Bench Test # 5
This bench test has a total of 33 task categories. You must score an Acceptable in 25 tasks (75%) to
pass this bench test. A mark in a gray box indicates an automatic re-work or re-take.
Your total score for this bench test is:
27 Acceptable
6
Unacceptable
0
# of Gray Boxes Marked
Your results for this bench test are:
✔ Pass
Re-work
Re-take
This was your:
✔ First Attempt
Second Attempt
Third and Final Attempt
In this example, the candidate did acceptable work on 27 of the total 33 tasks, for a passing grade.
Procedure for Reworking or Retaking Practical Bench Tests
JA Bench Jeweler
Certification
Offers Mentoring
• Similar to the old apprentice
system but with updated
communications techniques,
JA’s mentoring program
devises ways to bring the
knowledge and experience
of these top jewelers to fellow
craftsmen – through articles,
videos, books, Internet pages
and other innovative methods.
There are two ways for a candidate to rectify errors on practical bench tests:
Reworking - by redoing areas where minor infractions in workmanship occurred.
Retaking - by retaking the test in which major infractions occurred.
The administrators of the JA Bench Jeweler Certification program decide whether a bench test with
errors in workmanship will need to be reworked or retaken. In general, the criteria will be similar to
that used in a shop. A minor infraction would be a small detail, an error in workmanship that would
be corrected by sending the item back to the shop before delivering the article to the customer. In
the test situation, the candidate would have a chance to rework it. A major infraction would mean
the entire test would have to be retaken.
If a candidate needs to rework a task on a test, JA will return the test article to the proctor with
instructions to the candidate to rework that portion of the job; instructions include the time limit
within which the job should be completed.
When a candidate has errors in workmanship on a particular bench test but has demonstrated sufficient proficiency to qualify for continuing testing at that level, the candidate may retake the test. The
candidate must also pay for JA’s cost of materials used in that test. The candidate should notify JA of
the intention to retake the test within thirty days of receiving the performance evaluation.
The time allowed for retaking this test is marked on the instruction envelope and is similar to that allowed
for the original test. A candidate has a maximum of three opportunities to pass the bench test.
After Passing Your Practical Bench Tests
After you successfully complete all of the bench tests, JA sends the written tests for your level to your
proctor or test site. Again, it is your responsibility to arrange a suitable test schedule with your proctor.
You will receive certification when you have passed the both the practical and written test components and have paid all applicable fees in full.
Procedure for Retaking Written Tests
Written tests are in two forms: open book and closed book, and the candidate must pass each test
with a minimum grade of 75%. The candidate has three chances to pass the written tests. In the event
of a non-passing grade, the candidate simply notifies JA that he or she is ready to retake the test. We
will send the candidate another written exam.
12
Receiving Certification
Once you’ve successfully completed JA Bench Jeweler Certification, it’s time to celebrate your
achievement. Jewelers of America is committed to recognizing all certified individuals and helping
them share their achievement with employers, colleagues and consumers.
The JA Bench Jeweler Certification
lapel pin can be worn by certified
bench jewelers.
The JA Bench Jeweler certificate can be
framed and displayed in a prominent
location in a certified individual’s store.
To help publicize the achievement of certification, JA will prepare a press release
for use with local media.
Upon successful completion of the JA Bench Jeweler
Certification program, you will receive:
• One JA Bench Jeweler Certification certificate that
you can frame and display to customers in your
place of business. This certificate is of high
quality, blue foil, suitable for the finest type of
presentation framing. Extra copies are available
for $15 each.
• One JA Bench Jeweler Certification lapel pin.
• For JA members, JA Bench Jeweler Certification
decals for display in the window or door of a store,
shop, or other place of business.
• A press release, prepared by the Jewelers of
America marketing department, announcing your
accomplishment, that you can distribute to your
local media.
• JA Bench Jeweler Certification postcards that
can be used to promote your accomplishment
to your customers.
• For JA members, special recognition near your
store’s listing on the Jewelers of America Web site.
• The JA Bench Jeweler Certification logo, which can
be used in store advertising, on business cards and
on your Web site.
Many JA certified bench jewelers have
received local publicity in their hometown newspapers as a result of JA’s publicity efforts.
13
JA Bench Jeweler
Certification Recognizes
Individual Excellence
• Certification provides a way
for your to demonstrate your
professional qualifications.
• The JA Bench Jeweler
Certification designation is
a symbol of legitimacy for
those who have proven
themselves as qualified
bench jewelers.
“JA Certification has been a tremendous benefit for me and for the
store. People who are not certified are really missing out.”
– Tom Weishaar
JA Certified Master Bench Jeweler (CMBJ)
Underwood’s Fine Jewelry, Fayetteville, AR
“The process of becoming certified validated my skills and clearly
communicates what I’m capable of accomplishing to my current
and potential customers. My customers know the credentials I own
are nationally recognized, not self-appointed.”
– Marlin Pihl
JA Certified Master Bench Jeweler (CMBJ)
Heritage Jewelers, Spokane, WA
“Becoming certified is extremely worthwhile.
I’d do it again in a heartbeat.”
– Jeffrey Mathews
JA Certified Master Bench Jeweler (CMBJ)
Jeffrey Matthews Designs, Dallas, TX
“When I finished the certification program, JA supplied a press
release that was picked up by my local newspapers, which in turn
generated new customers. While our company had a good
reputation prior to JA Certification, it is nice to support it with
nationally recognized credentials.”
– Michael Dickey
JA Certified Bench Jeweler (CBJ)
Michael Dickey Designs, Redlands, CA
Jewelers of America
52 Vanderbilt Avenue, 19th Floor
New York, NY 10017
800-223-0673 • 646-658-0246
fax 646-658-0256
[email protected]
www.jewelers.org