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Gem Cutter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Creation and delivery of project plans for sculptures and nuanced gem cutting projects * Own cross-functional communication surrounding sculptures and nuanced gem cutting projects -Assist with hands ...

Creation and delivery of project plans for sculptures and nuanced gem cutting projects * Own cross-functional communication surrounding sculptures and nuanced gem cutting projects -Assist with hands ...

Welder/Fabricator/Fitter

Cocoa, FL · On-site

$17 - $28/hr

Company Overview GEM Industries, Inc. is a dynamic fabrication facility renowned for its ... Use hand tools, power tools, plasma cutters, press brake machines, and machining equipment to shape ...

Senior Engineer I, Software Engineering

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$121K - $160K/yr

Step into a career with ASM, where cutting edge technology meets collaborative culture. For over 55 ... Integrate and support factory automation interfaces, including SECS/GEM and related industry ...

Anesthesiology

Rapid City, SD · On-site

$394K/yr

Primary focus is providing cutting edge total joint replacement, extensive Sport Medicine, Ortho ... Mid-sized western gem nestled in the heart of the Black Hills! * Home to approximately 80K ...

Java Developer

Overland Park, KS · On-site

$50.50 - $65.25/hr

We are one of the fastest-growing companies in the US and we welcome you to search the thousands of jobs in our cutting-edge GEM system for employment opportunities that fit your qualifications. At ...

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Gem Cutter information

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How much do gem cutter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for gem cutter in the United States is $16.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a gem cutter?

Gem cutters, also known as lapidaries, are skilled artisans who shape, cut, and polish gemstones to enhance their appearance and value. They use specialized tools and techniques to transform rough stones into finished gems suitable for use in jewelry or decorative pieces. The process requires precision, an eye for detail, and knowledge of different gemstones' properties. Gem cutters must carefully plan each cut to maximize the stone's brilliance and minimize waste. Their work is crucial in bringing out the beauty and quality of gemstones.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a gem cutter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Gem Cutter, you need precise hand-eye coordination, attention to detail, and a strong understanding of gemology, often supported by vocational training or a gemology certification. Familiarity with gem-cutting tools such as faceting machines, lathes, and magnification systems is essential. Patience, problem-solving abilities, and a meticulous work ethic are critical soft skills for producing high-quality stones. These competencies ensure that gems are cut to maximize their beauty, value, and structural integrity, meeting industry standards and client expectations.

What are some common challenges a gem cutter faces when working with different types of gemstones?

Gem Cutters often encounter unique challenges depending on the hardness, cleavage, and inclusions present in each gemstone. For example, softer stones like opal require extra care to avoid scratches and fractures, while harder stones like sapphire demand precision tools and techniques to achieve the desired cut. Additionally, internal flaws or inclusions can impact how a stone is shaped and polished, requiring Gem Cutters to adjust their approach to maximize brilliance and minimize waste. Adapting to these variables is an important part of the role and helps ensure the best possible outcome for each gem.

What is the difference between Gem Cutter vs Jewelry Designer?

AspectGem CutterJewelry Designer
CredentialsGemology certification, gem cutting trainingDesign courses, jewelry design certifications
Work EnvironmentGem cutting workshops, laboratoriesDesign studios, jewelry stores
Industry UsageFocuses on shaping gemstonesFocuses on creating jewelry designs

While both roles are integral to the jewelry industry, a Gem Cutter specializes in shaping and polishing gemstones, requiring gemology knowledge and precision. A Jewelry Designer creates the overall design and aesthetic of jewelry pieces, often collaborating with gem cutters. Both professions require artistic skill but focus on different aspects of jewelry creation.

How much do gem cutters make?

Gem cutters typically earn between $25,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, skill level, and the complexity of the stones they work with. Skilled gem cutters with certification and specialized tools can earn higher wages, especially in high-end markets or jewelry manufacturing environments.

How to become a gem cutter?

To become a gem cutter, you typically need to complete a jewelry or gem cutting apprenticeship or training program to learn cutting techniques and tools. Gaining certification from a recognized gemological institute can enhance credibility, and developing skills in precision and attention to detail is essential for success in the field.
More about Gem Cutter jobs

What states have the most Gem Cutter jobs?

States with the most job openings for Gem Cutter jobs include:

Infographic showing various Gem Cutter job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, 46% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,298 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Project Engineer, R&D

David Yurman

New York, NY • Hybrid

$70/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


David Yurman rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 30 rated jewelry retailers


Job description

About Us

David Yurman is a celebrated American jewelry company founded in New York by David Yurman, a sculptor, and his wife, Sybil, a painter and ceramicist. When the artists began collaborating, their goal was simply to make beautiful objects to wear. Led today by their son Evan, David Yurman creates timeless, yet contemporary collections for women and men defined by inspiration, innovation, consummate craftsmanship and cable - the brand's artistic signature. David Yurman collections are available at retail stores throughout the United States, Canada, Hong Kong and France and at locations worldwide, through their exclusive authorized fine jewelry and timepiece network of retailers.

Our Values

At David Yurman, creativity, innovation and impeccable craftsmanship are at the core of everything we do. Fueled by the energy of our hometown, New York City, artistic passion informs each and every jewelry design. The Yurman family's guiding vision continually defines and redefines what it means to be the preeminent American luxury jewelry brand. We are committed to responsible business and social practices and to the protection and advancement of human rights. We believe in partnering with others who share these values and understand their importance.

Job Description

Project Engineer- R&D

Overview

This Project Engineer will merge artistic vision with technical problem-solving, aiding in creating functional aesthetic works. They will facilitate collaboration between artists and engineers in areas such as sculptural design and material science with the objective of realizing complex concepts from idea to physical reality.

Responsibilities

-Develop and explore new materials, technologies and manufacturing methods to identify potential product opportunities for sculptures and nuanced gem cutting projects

-Project management of sculpture and jewelry creation

  • Create, and manage calendar and scheduling for all meetings surrounding sculptures and nuanced gem cutting projects
  • Create agendas for all sculpture meetings
  • Provide recaps and updates as necessary following any sculpture meetings
  • Creation and delivery of project plans for sculptures and nuanced gem cutting projects
  • Own cross-functional communication surrounding sculptures and nuanced gem cutting projects

-Assist with hands on creation of sculptures - travel necessary at times for doing so

-Support Senior Director of Engineering with innovation efforts and strategic goals

-Execute testing and documentation of R&D process for all new materials used in sculptures

  • New material development for sculptures
  • New finishing development for sculptures

-Develops and maintains relationships with suppliers and vendor facilities mid-level technical managers

-Consultant support

  • Stone sourcing exploration with regards to availability, supply, cost & lead-times
  • Consultancy for mineral acquisition to support visual directives
  • Consultancy on vendor selection, execution and manufacturing techniques for Heritage DY sculpture reproduction

Qualifications

  • 1 to 3 years of experience
  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering preferred
  • Strong critical thinking and project management skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communications skills.
  • Demonstrates excellent time management, prioritization, attention to detail, and organizational skills.
  • Entrepreneurial spirit that enjoys working in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
  • Ability to work collaboratively across different teams.
  • Knowledge of modern jewelry manufacturing techniques, precious metal metallurgy and/or investment casting a plus
  • Working knowledge of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) & Oracle software a plus

Location: New York, NY (TriBeca)

Working Mode: Hybrid, some travel required

Estimate Salary Range: $70-85k

Base pay is one component of David Yurman's total compensation package, which may also include the following for eligible employees: access to healthcare benefits, 401(k) plan, bonus, employee discounts, Summer Fridays (corporate roles), generous paid time off, sick time, and more.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at David Yurman

As a company founded by artists, David Yurman champions self-expression in everything we do. We are committed to fostering a culture of openness and creative collaboration within our entire community, and we cherish the diversity of our employees' backgrounds and perspectives. We will always advocate for equity and inclusion for all.

David Yurman is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and provides equal opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to an individual's age, race, creed, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender).


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