I just finished up my first week at the Jewelry store and today I was given the task of repairing my first piece of jewelry - a quick little solder seam in a white 14k band that had snapped on the side. It went really well. I'm stoked.
The rest of my week consisted of learning the register, writing receipts and layaway cards, waiting on customers, and getting to know the layout of the store and the jeweler's bench where I'll mostly be working. On my down time, I've been browsing through drawers to learn where all the tools and findings can be found, what they do, etc. You should see our torch. It's not much larger than a Crayola magic marker. The tip, itself, is teeny-weeny. It's adorable. It would cower in fear of the annealing torch in Loveland hall. We also rock a Foredom quick-change Flex Shaft. I'm still used to having to use a chuck key, but I love it. I really do. And I have to admit - sawing on the bench pin might take a little while to get used to, being a lefty and all, but I can't imagine it taking too terribly long. I'm already accustomed to using the right side of the buffing machine. I've also learned a little bit about disassembling a wristwatch - replacing batteries, gaskets, pins, links, wristbands, crowns...and the significance of avoiding that little copper coil inside. Don't worry, I haven't actually touched it. No watch has been harmed or maimed in the replacing of a battery thus far. :)
Upon meandering through the front door of the store, it's like entering 1975. The register is one of those old-fashioned cha-ching registers, and all of our counter tops and displays, shelving, lighting - there's all original. We have a lot of long-time customers who frequent the store, and for the most part they're all pretty cool. We have our fair share of newer clientele as well - also good people.
I like it there. And I'm really excited to be there. And I can't wait to learn more.
