Design & Media · EFZ
Goldsmith EFZ
Make jewellery from precious metals.
About this profession
Make jewellery from precious metals. Over 4 years you learn this profession in a host company, at the vocational school and in inter-company courses. At the end you receive a nationally recognised Federal VET Diploma (EFZ).
Day-to-day responsibilities
- ›Master and apply goldsmithing techniques
- ›Professionally execute engravings and settings
- ›Advise clients and create designs
- ›Repair and rework jewellery pieces
Skills you'll need
A typical week as an apprentice
Host company
3–4 days/week — you learn the trade hands-on alongside experienced professionals.
Vocational school
1–2 days/week — general education plus job-specific theory.
Inter-company courses (üK)
Several blocks per year — practise core techniques together with other apprentices.
Where you'll work
Design studios, agencies, in-house creative teams or as a freelancer.
Entry requirements
- Completed compulsory school (Sek A or B, depending on profession). Strong school report in relevant subjects helps.
- A 'Schnupperlehre' (1–5 day taster) is the best way to find out if the profession suits you.
What you earn at the end
Federal VET Diploma (EFZ) — a nationally recognised qualification that opens doors to higher VET (HF), the vocational baccalaureate (BM) and universities of applied sciences.
Apprentice wage
Typical monthly gross wage (CHF). Actual wages vary by sector and region.
Year 1
CHF 700 – 900/ Mt.
Year 2
CHF 900 – 1’150/ Mt.
Year 3
CHF 1’200 – 1’550/ Mt.
Year 4
CHF 1’500 – 1’950/ Mt.
Future-readiness
Score 3/5Our take
Demand for handcrafted jewellery persists, automation poses risks, but adaptability secures future opportunities in niche markets and custom pieces.
Sources
Early contract endings in this field
Across Design & Media apprenticeships, roughly 18–26% of contracts are ended early, compared with about 23% nationally. Most of those apprentices continue their training elsewhere.
Further education & career
- Federal PET Diploma: Goldsmith with advanced federal diploma
- Advanced Federal College: Designer HF Product Design
- Vocational Baccalaureate and University of Applied Sciences (e.g. Jewellery Design)
- Specialisation (e.g. gemstone setting, restoration)
Learn more
Official sources and further information about this profession.