Bench Jeweler Certification PROGRAM GUIDE

Transcription

1 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

2 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. 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. 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. 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. 2

3 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, 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. 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. 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. 3

4 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 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. Practical Bench Tests 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. 4

5 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 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 $745 Or Non- Members Full Test $865 Or Section 1 $250 Section 1 $290 Section 2 $250 Section 2 $290 Section 3 $245 Section 3 $285 Second Level: Bench Jeweler JA Members Non- Members Full Test $1050 Or Full Test $1200 Or Section 1 $365 Section 1 $415 Section 2 $365 Section 2 $415 Section 3 $320 Section 3 $370 Third Level: Bench Jeweler JA Members Full Test $1400 Or Non- Members Full Test $1520 Or Section 1 $470 Section 1 $510 Section 2 $470 Section 2 $510 Section 3 $460 Section 3 $500 Fourth Level: Master Bench Jeweler JA Members Non- Members Full Test $1400 Or Full Test $1520 Or Section 1 $470 Section 1 $510 Section 2 $470 Section 2 $510 Section 3 $460 Section 3 $500 Application continued on next page

6 Payment: Total Amount(s) Circled Above Check Enclosed (Payable to Jewelers of America) Total Amount $ Credit Card: VISA MASTERCARD 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 State Zip Code ( ) ( ) Day Phone Fax 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. Attn: Certification 52 Vanderbilt Ave. 19 th Floor New York, NY Fax: (646) Ph: (800) (646)

7 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 or visit 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. 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. 5

8 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. c. d. Bench Test #5 File, finish, and size ring casting. Estimated time: 1.5 hours. 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 #3 Prepare oval head and fit to shank; size ring and set oval stone. Estimated time: 1.5 hours. Bench Test #7 Repair ring: re-tip three prongs to match existing prong. Estimated time: 2 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) 6

9 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) 7

10 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) 8

11 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 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 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 9 Second Level: b,b Fourth Level: c,c First Level: b,d Third Level: d,a written portion questions: Answers to sample closed book and open book

12 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 Description Acceptable Unacceptable Fabrication Bail Bail straight and even Bail not straight and even Bail symmetrical Bail not symmetrical Bail in proportion to head Bail not in proportion to and stone size head and stone size Bail movement even Bail movement poor or and smooth out of balance Jump rings Jump rings in proportion Jump rings too small or large in diameter to head and prongs and not in proportion to the head Jump ring wire drawn Jump ring wire not drawn to reduce diameter to reduce the diameter 10

13 Task Description Acceptable Unacceptable Head Prong angle between 65º and 75º Prongs angle not between 65º and 75º Lower gallery pear-shaped Lower gallery not pear-shaped Upper gallery wire pear-shaped Upper gallery wire not pear-shaped Lower gallery wire slightly smaller Both upper and lower gallery wires than upper gallery wire the same size or the lower too small Space between upper and lower Space between upper and lower gallery gallery wires proportionate wires too shallow or too deep Space between upper and lower Space between upper and lower gallery gallery wires parallel wires not parallel Prongs placed symmetrically Prong placement not symmetrical and aligned properly and out of alignment Soldering Junction of Excess solder at fewer Excess solder visible to the prongs and than two prong junctions unaided eye at two or gallery wires more prong junctions Jump ring No excess solder Excess solder visible to the unaided eye junction Point junction No excess solder at point junction Excess solder at the point junction of on upper or lower gallery wire the upper or lower gallery wire Bail No excess solder at the junction of Excess solder at the junction of the jump ring and the bail the jump ring and the bail Setting Seats/Bearings Seats/bearings cut even and smooth Seats/bearings uneven and smooth Seats/bearings do not have rags Seats/bearings have rags or flashes or flashes of metal from filing of metal from filing or burring or burring Proper amount of contact between Unequal or no amount of contact the stone and the seat at each prong between the stone and the seat at each prong Uneven girdle accommodated Uneven girdle not accommodated Stone within 5º of being level Stone more than 5º out of level Prong contact between 33% and 50% Prong contact below 33% or above 50% Portion of prong over crown in full Portion of prong over crown not contact with the crown in full contact with crown Stone not damaged or abraded Stone damaged and abraded Polishing Head and Prongs unscratched and lustrous Prongs scratched or dull & Finishing prongs Bail Bail unscratched and lustrous Bail scratched, dull or unfinished Jump rings Jump rings unscratched and lustrous Jump rings scratched, dull or unfinished Head No tool marks on gallery wires Tool marks on gallery wires and prongs and prongs and prongs Bail No tool marks on bail Tool marks on bail Jump rings No tool marks on jump rings Tool marks on jump rings Overall piece No dirt, grease or water spots Dirt, grease or water spots Delivery Overall piece Prepared for delivery Not prepared for customer delivery 11

14 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. 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. Procedure for Reworking or Retaking Practical Bench Tests 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

15 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. 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. 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. To help publicize the achievement of certification, JA will prepare a press release for use with local media. Many JA certified bench jewelers have received local publicity in their hometown newspapers as a result of JA s publicity efforts. 13

16 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 fax info@jewelofam.org