Van Cleef & Arpels Polisher

Overview

Van Cleef & Arpels is a Parisian maison renowned for haute joaillerie and exceptional artisanal savoir‑faire. The brand is part of the Richemont group and operates workshops and ateliers dedicated to meticulous handcraft, combining decades-old techniques with rigorous standards of luxury production.

Role & Responsibilities

• Execute hand and machine polishing of precious metal components (gold, platinum, palladium) to achieve flawless surface finish and specified gloss levels.
• Remove burrs, seams and machining marks; perform micro‑finishing and edge rounding in accordance with atelier quality standards.
• Prepare and finish parts for stone‑setting and assembly, ensuring dimensional tolerances and visual coherence with design intent.
• Operate and maintain polishing equipment (wheels, buffs, abrasive compounds, rotary tools) and polishing accessories; select appropriate abrasives and compounds for each metal and finish.
• Inspect work using magnification (loupe), gauges and micrometric measurement tools; document nonconformities and perform corrective actions.
• Collaborate closely with goldsmiths, setters and quality control to meet production schedules and maintain signature maison aesthetics.
• Follow strict cleanliness, safety and contamination‑control procedures to protect finished surfaces and precious stones.

Qualifications

• Vocational qualification in jewellery‑making, metalsmithing or equivalent (CAP/BEP or apprenticeship) or demonstrable equivalent experience.
• Proven experience polishing precious metals within a high‑jewellery or fine‑jewellery workshop.
• Exceptional manual dexterity, fine motor control and eye‑hand coordination.
• Strong attention to detail with an eye for surface quality, symmetry and finish consistency.
• Ability to read technical drawings and follow finishing specifications precisely.

Skills

Experience

Several years of hands‑on experience in jewellery polishing or precision metal finishing, preferably within a high‑jewellery atelier where exacting standards and delicate components are handled regularly.

Education

Vocational diploma (CAP/BEP) in jewellery‑making, metalsmithing or equivalent qualification; completion of an apprenticeship is advantageous.

Workplace

Culture

The atelier environment emphasizes artisanal excellence, discretion and a culture of mentorship where traditional techniques are passed from master craftsmen to successive generations. Teams operate within a highly controlled production setting that values meticulousness, pride in workmanship and respect for maison heritage.

About Cerulean

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