Bench Jeweller
Van Cleef & Arpels — Lyon — Bench Jeweller. Join Les Ateliers de Lyon to craft and set haute-joaillerie pieces for the Maison.
Overview
Van Cleef & Arpels is a French maison renowned for its high jewellery, exceptional craftsmanship and poetic approach to design. As part of the Richemont group, the brand blends artisanal ateliers with rigorous quality standards and a global luxury distribution network, offering an environment where handcraftsmanship and creative excellence are highly prized.
Role & Responsibilities
- Execute high-precision bench work for haute joaillerie: sawing, filing, soldering, shaping and finishing of precious metal components.
- Set and secure precious stones using a variety of techniques (claw, pavé, invisible and bespoke settings) while preserving gem integrity.
- Interpret technical drawings and work orders from design and production teams to deliver components and finished pieces to Maison standards.
- Perform microscopic inspection and final quality control on assembled items, ensuring flawless finishes and conformity with jewellery tolerances.
- Maintain personal tooling and bench area; participate in continuous improvement initiatives and knowledge transfer within the atelier.
Qualifications
- Vocational qualification in jewellery-making, goldsmithing or equivalent (CAP/BEP, apprenticeship or recognised artisan diploma) or demonstrable equivalent experience.
- Strong manual dexterity, excellent visual acuity and experience working with precious metals and gemstones.
- Proven competence in multiple stone-setting techniques and fine soldering methods.
- Ability to read and execute detailed technical drawings and production specifications.
- Commitment to the exacting quality and finishing standards characteristic of haute joaillerie.
Skills
Experience
Typically 3+ years of hands-on experience in jewellery fabrication and stone setting within a luxury or high-jewellery environment; demonstrable portfolio of completed pieces.
Education
Vocational diploma in jewellery-making, goldsmithing or equivalent professional apprenticeship; substantial professional experience may substitute for formal qualifications.
Culture
The Maison fosters a culture of meticulous craftsmanship, discretion and artistic excellence. Ateliers emphasize mentorship, intergenerational skill transfer and a collective commitment to sustaining the brand's heritage of refined techniques and exceptional finishing.