Gem and Diamond Workers
Gem and diamond workers fabricate, finish, and evaluate gems and diamonds for use in jewelry and industrial tools. They work in jewelry manufacturing facilities, repair shops, and industrial settings, performing precision tasks like cutting, polishing, and quality assessment. The work requires technical skill and attention to detail.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against gem and diamond workers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves examining rough stones, using specialized equipment to cut and polish gems, and inspecting finished pieces for quality and flaws. Workers may spend hours at a workbench using microscopes, calibrated tools, and polishing compounds. Tasks vary between preparing stones for jewelry mounting and evaluating industrial-grade diamonds. Record-keeping and documentation of stone specifications are regular duties.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to prefer hands-on, structured work with clear procedures and measurable results. You're detail-oriented, methodical, and comfortable with technical precision tasks. If you like following established processes and working with tangible materials to create finished products, this work suits you well.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Connecticut | $52,900 | $69,800 | $80,500 | 140 |
| Virginia | $51,820 | $61,940 | $80,240 | 240 |
| New York | $37,160 | $61,720 | $85,460 | 4,300 |
| California | $47,540 | $60,790 | $76,060 | 2,300 |
| South Carolina | $49,500 | $60,380 | $63,880 | 200 |
| Washington | $48,320 | $60,380 | $71,540 | 290 |
| New Jersey | $47,520 | $59,480 | $72,870 | 780 |
| Vermont | $53,650 | $58,570 | $71,620 | 50 |
| Kansas | $38,490 | $57,730 | $71,520 | 110 |
| Colorado | $44,480 | $57,120 | $73,380 | 220 |
| North Dakota | $41,230 | $57,020 | $58,060 | 50 |
| Michigan | $47,060 | $56,610 | $63,330 | 460 |
All 47 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Gemologist Appraiser (CGA) — American Gem Society
- Certified Gemologist (CG) — American Gem Society
- Independent Certified Gemologist Appraiser (ICGA) — American Gem Society
- Registered Jeweler (RJ) — American Gem Society
- Certified Sales Associate (CSA) — American Gem Society
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against gem and diamond workers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-9071.06 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.