Future Jewelers Academy Shines Bright Like a Diamond in Gemstone Industry

Students from Baldwin High School’s Shubert Program recently stepped into the center of the global jewelry industry as part of the Future Jewelers Academy, participating in an educational experience in New York City’s famed Diamond District. The “Leaving2Learn” provided students with firsthand exposure to the many career pathways available within the jewelry and gemstone industry—an essential part of the Academy’s mission to prepare students for future success.

During the exclusive learning excursion, students toured Carrera Casting Corp., where they learned about advanced jewelry manufacturing processes and the craftsmanship behind fine jewelry production. The experience continued with a tour of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) campus, offering the Baldwin students rare insight into gemstone education, grading, and research in one of the industry’s most respected institutions.

Baldwin Union Free School District's Future Jewelers Academy is an innovative collaboration with the Natural Diamond Council and Black in Jewelry Coalition. The unique academy enables Baldwin students to delve into all aspects of the jewelry industry, from benchwork to design to retail.  

This learning excursion exemplified this mission by connecting classroom learning to real-world applications and professional environments.

“Teaching in the Future Jewelers Academy, alongside Ms. Park has been such an amazing experience,” said Micha Proietto, one of the Future Jewelers Academy teachers at Baldwin High School@Shubert. “I love being able to watch my students go from design concept to fabricating out of brass, copper or bronze, and then finishing their art to wear. This year, our students are working with nature themes and learning about Lost Wax Casting, Metal Clay, and Mold Making; I truly look forward to what they will create next.”

The district’s Future Jewelers Academy program would also not be possible without the strong partnerships and support of the Future Jewelers Academy organization, as well as the numerous program sponsors like Jewelers Mutual, Jewelers of America, and GIA.