Diploma in Jewellery Design and Manufacture

Purpose

The purpose of the Diploma in Jewellery Design and Manufacturing is, to introduce students to a range of skills and knowledge associated with the broader field of jewellery design and manufacturing. The focus is on developing graduates with broad knowledge and skills within the jewellery design and manufacturing industry. The graduate will be able to produce creative jewellery using a variety of skills and materials, apply technology innovatively and analyse of relevant issues in jewellery design. Graduates will have the competence to apply creativity, problem-solving, specialised knowledge and management principles to the practical implementation of a wide range of interior design problems.

Rationale

Jewellery designers, manufacturers and setters work closely together to create, produce and market jewellery. For this reason, the South African Jewellery Manufacturing Industry has identified Jewellery Design as a critical skill. Rapid technological development has necessitated the need for high level skilled jewellery designers in South Africa. 80% of commercial jewellery in South Africa is imported, there are great opportunities for the Jewellery Manufacturing Industry in South Africa to design and manufacture jewellery.

The competitive jewellery market requires products that follow and set fashion trends, are of a high quality and are well marketed.

Currently there is a shortage of well-rounded jewellery designers that can meet the industry needs and grow the South African jewellery market. This qualification will produce more skilled designers who in conjunction with jewellery manufacturers and setters will contribute to developing the South African jewellery market by producing quality products which can compete locally and in the global market. This qualification will increase the technical proficiency and size of the workforce; which would then enable industry to satisfy the local demands for jewellery without having to rely on imports, thereby decreasing the importation of cheap jewellery which is a threat to the Industry.

A qualifying student will be competent in the production of creative jewellery using a variety of skills and materials. This will be done through the innovative application of technology and an analysis of relevant issues within the field of jewellery design. Students completing the qualification will be able to find employment in the jewellery industry as contemporary jewellery designer/maker, Jewellery workshop manager or diamond and gemstone setters.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Recognition of prior learning in case of learners not complying with the formal entry requirements will be conducted in accordance with the policy and guidelines of the University concerning the recognition of other forms of formal, informal and non-formal learning experience. Recognition takes place only where prior learning corresponds with the required NQF level, and in terms of applied competencies relevant to the content and outcomes of the qualification. Through recognition of prior learning learners may gain access, or advanced placement, or recognition of status, on condition that they continue their studies at this University.

Entry Requirements

All students must fulfil the minimum requirements as stated in AD1: General Faculty Regulations, as well as comply with the following senior certificate requirements:

• A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a minimum APS-score of 18 with Mathematics or 19 with Mathematical Literacy or an equivalent qualification at an equivalent standard, as determined by a Status Committee and approved by the Faculty Board.

First year

• JDDM1Y1 Design Management 1, 12 Credits.
• JDDR1Y1 Jewellery Drawing 1, 24 Credits.
• JDJD1Y1 Jewellery Design 1, 24 Credits.
• JDJT1Y1 Jewellery Technology 1, 12 Credits.
• JTJT1Y1 Jewellery Techniques 1, 36 Credits.
• MDCS1Y1 Contextual Studies 1, 12 Credits.

Second year

• JDDM1Y2 Design Management 2, 12 Credits.
• JDGM1Y2 Gemmology 2, 12 Credits.
• JDJP1Y2 Jewellery Practice 2, 84 Credits.
• MDCS1Y2 Contextual Studies 2, 12 Credits.

Third year

• JDDM1Y3 Design Management 3, 12 Credits.
• JDGM1Y3 Gemmology 3, 12 Credits.
• JDJP1Y3 Jewellery Practice 3, 84 Credits.
• MDCS1Y3 Contextual Studies 3, 12 Credits.

1. Produce creative jewellery.
2. Design creative jewellery.
3. Use drawing as a design tool in the making of jewellery.
4. Demonstrate an appropriate contextual understanding of theoretical aspects of jewellery.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Appropriate tools, machinery and materials are selected to produce creative jewellery.
• All work is carried out without risk to anybody.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Investigative and analytical skills are utilised.
• Design solutions are created using the appropriate technology.
• Design solutions are communicated.
• Jewellery manufacturing technology is used creatively.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Selected drawing techniques are developed and refined.
• Legible working drawings are produced of jewellery to be produced.
• Design concepts are communicated in various media.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

Various aspects of design can be analysed.

• Appropriate technologies are used effectively.
• Gemstones can be identified using previously gained knowledge and gemmological equipment.
• The commercial relationships between the candidate`s creative work and the industry is explored.

Integrated Assessment

Formative assessment

• Written and oral tests.
• Evaluation of workshop practice.
• Interdisciplinary projects.
• Group projects.
• Portfolios.

Summative Assessment

• Controlled projects.
• Portfolio presentations.
• Panel assessment of year's work.
• Written tests and exams.