Few opportunities for jewellers
The industry is small so opportunities are generally low, but qualified and experienced manufacturing jewellers have better chances because demand for jewellery cleaning, alteration, repair and design services is steady.
According to the Census, 819 jewellers and 129 jewellery designers worked in New Zealand in 2018.
A manufacturing jewellery apprenticeship increases your chances
Your chances of getting a job are best if you train as a manufacturing jeweller. Ten new apprentices are taken on each year in manufacturing jewellery stores around the country and there is strong competition for these positions.
Contemporary jewellers depend on their marketing skills
Opportunities for contemporary jewellers, who are usually self-employed, depend on how they market and sell their work. It can be competitive and they may need to combine jewellery-making with another job.
Types of employers varied
Manufacturing jewellers usually work at manufacturing workshops or workshops at retail jewellery stores.
Contemporary jewellers usually work for themselves in small private studios, and exhibit and sell through galleries. They may also teach jewellery making techniques.
