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Jewelry Auction Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Heritage Auctions

Cataloger - Jewelry

Dallas, TX

Launch your career at Heritage Auctions, where you'll dive into the captivating world of fine jewelry. Use your research skills to uncover the history behind rare pieces and craft compelling ...

Bonhams

Specialist, Jewelry

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

About Bonhams Bonhams is a global auction house with an 18th century heritage poised for ... About the Role As a Specialist in the Jewelry department, you will play a pivotal role in ...

Bonhams

Specialist, Jewelry

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

About Bonhams Bonhams is a global auction house with an 18th century heritage poised for ... About the Role As a Specialist in the Jewelry department, you will play a pivotal role in ...

Vogt Auction

Auction Photographer

San Antonio, TX

$18 - $30/hr

Vogt Auction, a leading fine art and antiques auction house, is seeking a talented Photographer to ... Produce high-quality digital product photography of fine art, antiques, jewelry, furniture ...

Heritage Auctions

Jewelry Specialist

Dallas, TX

Heritage Auctions is the largest auction house founded in the U.S. and serves more than 50 different auction categories, including Coins, Sports, Comics, Historical, Jewelry, Fine & Decorative Arts ...

Bonhams

Senior Specialist, Jewelry

Manhattan, NY · On-site

Salary: $120,000 - $150,000 annually, DOE About Bonhams Bonhams is a global auction house with an ... About the Role As a Senior Jewelry Specialist, you will play a pivotal role in leading consignment ...

Bonhams

Senior Specialist, Jewelry

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

About Bonhams Bonhams is a global auction house with an 18th century heritage poised for ... About the Role As a Senior Jewelry Specialist, you will play a pivotal role in leading consignment ...

Bonhams

Senior Specialist, Jewelry

Manhattan, NY

About Bonhams Bonhams is a global auction house with an 18th century heritage poised for ... About the Role As a Senior Jewelry Specialist, you will play a pivotal role in leading consignment ...

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Jewelry Auction information

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How much do jewelry auction jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for jewelry auction in the United States is $25.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $32.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get a job at an auction?

To get a job at a jewelry auction, candidates should have knowledge of jewelry and appraisal skills, often gained through relevant certifications or experience. Positions may include auction assistants, catalogers, or appraisers, and typically require strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Applying through auction house websites or industry job boards is common, and some roles may require working during auction events or on a flexible schedule.

What is the difference between Jewelry Auction vs Jewelry Appraiser?

AspectJewelry AuctionJewelry Appraiser
CredentialsMay require auction house certifications, gemological knowledgeGIA certification, gemology degrees often required
Work EnvironmentAuction houses, online platforms, event settingsJewelry stores, appraisal labs, independent consulting
Industry UsageFacilitates sale of jewelry through biddingDetermines jewelry value for sales, insurance, estate planning

Jewelry Auction and Jewelry Appraiser roles share knowledge of jewelry valuation but differ in purpose. Jewelry auctions focus on selling jewelry via bidding events, while jewelry appraisers assess value for various needs. Both require gemological knowledge and industry credentials, but their work environments and primary functions differ significantly.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in jewelry auction roles?

Professionals in jewelry auction roles often encounter challenges such as accurately appraising unique or rare pieces, maintaining up-to-date knowledge of market trends, and ensuring the authenticity and provenance of items. Additionally, they must skillfully balance client relations with both buyers and sellers, and work efficiently under the time constraints of live or online auction events. Strong communication and negotiation skills are essential, as team members frequently collaborate with gemologists, appraisers, and sales staff to deliver successful auction outcomes.

How much does a top auctioneer make?

A top jewelry auctioneer can earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, reputation, and the auction house. High-performing auctioneers with strong client networks and sales skills may earn higher commissions and bonuses based on auction results.

Do auctioneers make good money?

Auctioneers can earn a wide range of income depending on experience, location, and the types of auctions they conduct. Successful auctioneers often earn commissions or fees based on the sale price of items, with top professionals making a substantial income, especially in high-value markets like jewelry auctions. Income also depends on skills such as persuasive speaking, marketing, and knowledge of the items being auctioned.

What is a jewelry auction?

A jewelry auction is a public or private event where fine jewelry pieces are offered for sale to the highest bidder. These auctions can be held in person at auction houses, online, or in a hybrid format. Items for sale often include vintage, antique, designer, or rare jewelry, and are typically appraised and authenticated before the auction. Buyers participate by placing bids, and the highest bid at the end of the auction wins the item. Jewelry auctions are popular among collectors, investors, and anyone interested in acquiring unique or valuable pieces.

Is it hard to become an auctioneer?

Becoming a jewelry auctioneer typically requires gaining experience in sales or auction environments, completing relevant training or certification, and developing strong communication and negotiation skills. Licensing or certification may be required depending on the region, and understanding jewelry valuation can also be beneficial.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Jewelry Auction Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Jewelry Auction Specialist, you need expertise in gemology, jewelry appraisal, and market trends, often supported by a degree in gemology or certifications such as GIA (Gemological Institute of America). Familiarity with auction management software, online bidding platforms, and detailed cataloging systems is essential. Excellent communication, negotiation skills, and attention to detail help build client trust and ensure accurate representation of items. These competencies are vital for authenticating pieces, achieving optimal sales outcomes, and maintaining the reputation of the auction house.
Head of Department, Jewelry, North America

Head of Department, Jewelry, North America

Sotheby's

New York, NY • On-site

$175K - $240K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

ABOUT SOTHEBY'S
Established in 1744, Sotheby's promotes access and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions, private sales and retail. Our deep expertise across 70 selling categories is supported by a leading technology platform and a global network of specialists spanning 40 countries. Selling categories include Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits and Design, as well as collectible cars and real estate through RM Sotheby's and Concierge. Sotheby's Financial Services is a leading art lender and provides capital solutions for collectors around the world, having originated more than $12 billion in loans since its inception. Sotheby's new global headquarters is now open at the iconic Breuer building at 945 Madison Avenue in New York City.
THE ROLE
Lead the Jewelry Department in North America, responsible for the day to day operations of and deliverables from the department, including people management, cost management, sales and client strategy.
Responsible for new business generation and for the sourcing, authentication, evaluation and sale of property to meet sales and profit targets for Jewelry.
Ensure close co-operation and good communications with international and senior colleagues in worldwide Jewelry and across other North America departments and regional offices.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Head of Department, Business Getting & KCM
  • Overall responsibility for Jewelry sales held in North America
  • Develop and lead departmental business getting and negotiation, meeting sales and net profit targets
  • Continue to develop and nurture client relationships. Focus on strategic long-term business development focusing on appropriate business and clients for the New York sales, while also being proactive for global Jewelry sales.
  • Identify private clients in USA, interested in collecting Jewelry, and develop them to actively transact in our worldwide Jewelry auctions, and potentially in other auction categories
  • Participate in consignment sweeps, appraisals/valuations, in USA
  • Develop with Client Development specific client priorities, key action plans for existing or newly identified clients. Setting milestones and key objectives and then executing against these strategies
  • Participate in interest meetings, execute bids, and provide post sale service to successful buyers
  • Build strong relationships with international colleagues and work with clients to actively sell Sotheby's international Jewelry sales
  • Increase private sale revenue by growing awareness of private-sale capabilities
  • Work in conjunction with Global Head of Jewelry Business and Business Director to identify the marketing and business getting strategy for the New York sales and team.
  • With the Global Head of Jewelry Business and Business Director ensure accurate management of all sale related costs

Expertise & Client Service
  • Set an example of scholarship - providing expertise, researching and cataloging objects to the highest standard, according to client service and sale deadlines.
  • Maintain an exceptionally high level of client service, both internally and externally.

Team Management
  • Direct line management responsibility for specialist and cataloging staff, working with the Global Head of Jewellery Business and Managing Director, Global Jewelry and HR on recruitment, performance management, development, year-end processes and ad hoc support for the team.
  • Provide mentoring and help to train less experienced colleagues (whether in New York or other North America locations), developing the team as individuals and as a whole to maximize the quality of the expertise and levels of client service offered by the business.
  • Ensure that teamwork is supported within the department. Monitor work priorities, vacation, and well-being within the Department.

Other
  • Take an active role in partnering with the Marketplace and Salon teams to support the performance of the presentation and sales of Jewelry via those channels.
  • Operating at all times in accordance with the company's rules on compliance and corporate governance, working closely with the Business Director as the point people for problem solving, client service level, and general legal matters.
  • Facilitate high level private treaties where appropriate.
  • Prepare proposals and valuations.
  • Attend global Jewelry auctions where necessary

The proposed base salary for this position ranges from $175,000-$240,000. In addition to base salary successful candidates are eligible to receive a discretionary bonus, as well as a competitive benefits package. Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, licensure or certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered.
To view our Candidate Privacy Notice for the US, please click here
To view our Candidate Privacy Notice for the UK, Hong Kong, France and Switzerland, please click here
The Company is an equal opportunity employer and considers all applicants for employment without regard to race (including, without limitation, traits historically associated with race, such as natural hair, hair texture, and protective and treated or untreated hairstyles), color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership/union status, national origin, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic predisposition, genetic information, reproductive health decision, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, alienage or citizenship status, domestic violence victim status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/province or local law. The Company complies with applicable state and local laws prohibiting discrimination in employment in every jurisdiction in which it operates.

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