Jewellery Polisher / Finisher
Van Cleef & Arpels — Jewellery Polisher / Finisher in Paris. Artisan role in a high-jewellery atelier requiring precision polishing and stone-safe finishing.
Overview
Van Cleef & Arpels is a Parisian maison renowned for high jewellery, watches and objets d'art, operating within the Richemont group. The brand is recognised for its artisanal ateliers, rigorous standards of finish and a long-standing commitment to craftsmanship and refinement.
Role & Responsibilities
- Execute precision polishing and surface-finishing operations on high jewellery pieces to meet Maison quality standards.
- Prepare and protect gemstones and settings during finishing operations using stone-safe techniques.
- Operate and maintain polishing equipment (rotary polishing motor, buffing wheels) and select appropriate polishing compounds for different metals and finishes.
- Perform final visual and magnified inspections; detect and correct surface defects, scratches or residues before assembly.
- Collaborate with setters, bench jewellers and quality-control teams to resolve finish-related issues and ensure seamless handover.
- Maintain a clean, safe workshop environment and comply with atelier procedures for tools, materials and waste handling.
- Record production details and report equipment maintenance or quality deviations to the workshop supervisor.
Qualifications
- Vocational qualification in jewellery-making, bench jeweller apprenticeship or equivalent bench experience.
- Demonstrable knowledge of precious metals (gold, platinum) and their behaviour under polishing.
- Proven competence in stone-safe finishing techniques and familiarity with gem handling precautions.
- Strong visual acuity and manual dexterity; ability to work under magnification for extended periods.
- Commitment to the exacting standards of luxury jewellery production and discretion handling confidential designs.
Skills
Experience
Minimum of 3 years' experience in polishing or finishing within a jewellery workshop or luxury maison, with demonstrated ability to deliver high-quality finishes on precious-metal pieces and set stones.
Education
Vocational diploma in jewellery-making, bench jeweller certificate, or equivalent apprenticeship training.
Culture
The atelier culture emphasises artisanal mastery, meticulous attention to detail and reverence for heritage techniques. Van Cleef & Arpels fosters a collaborative environment where skilled artisans work closely with designers and setters to achieve exceptional finish and product integrity.