Jewellery: NC (Level 6)

What you will learn

The course centres around three main areas:

Design – this area of study will encourage you to explore the fascinating world of Jewellery design considering both the aesthetics of the work but also sympathetic to the techniques and processes used to realise each design.

Manufacture – in our well-equipped and dedicated Jewellery studios, you will experience a structured approach to learning the craft of Jewellery manufacture and you will  experience the full range of hand manufacturing techniques available to the modern craftsperson. These techniques include silversmithing, enamelling, engraving and polishing.

Gemstones – a particular specialism of the department is the study and use of precious gemstones and this takes the form of a detailed investigation of gemmology (identification of gemstones) and the practical application of gem setting techniques, so valuable to the modern Jeweller.

When you complete your course, you will have a professional design portfolio supported by a range of finished fine Jewellery items as well as a comprehensive range of Jewellery skills allowing you to take your next steps to enter the Jewellery industry or to progress on to HND or Degree level study.

Course topics include:

• Contemporary Jewellery Design
• Precious Metal Technology
• Piercing and Inlay Techniques
• Working with Wire and Sheet Metal
• Enamelling and Engraving
• Gemstone Setting
• Gemstone Identification

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements and entry is by interview.

Any evidence of your ability in Art, English and hand skills would be an advantage.

For this course, if English is not your first language

• you need to have SQA ESOL Higher (or equivalent)

• If you do not have a formal ESOL qualification but your language skills meet this level, you should apply for your course and then contact our Admissions team to organise an internal language assessment  here at the College.

Career Opportunities

Employment in retail, manufacturing or wholesale Jewellers

Future prospects

This qualification may allow you to progress on to HND Jewellery Production & Design and Business Management.