CBJ Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CBJ facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. A bench jeweler notices a hairline crack in a shank that the customer did not mention. What is the proper action? → Document the crack and notify the customer before proceeding
2. What is a key responsibility of a Master Bench Jeweler? → Overseeing and mentoring junior jewelers
3. Which type of polishing wheel is best suited for applying rouge compound? → Muslin or cotton buff wheel
4. A US bench jeweler wishes to export a vintage piece containing elephant ivory. Which federal law primarily restricts this activity? → Endangered Species Act in conjunction with CITES permits
5. What is the function of flux when soldering precious metals? → It prevents oxidation and promotes solder flow
6. Which finishing step should always be performed before rhodium plating a white gold piece? → Thorough polishing and ultrasonic cleaning to remove all surface contaminants
7. Which setting type surrounds the entire girdle of a gemstone with a metal collar? → Bezel setting
8. Why is historical context important when studying fundamentals? → It shows how concepts developed and why they matter today
9. What is the SOAP format used for in documentation? → Organizing clinical notes into Subjective, Objective, Assessment, and Plan sections
10. When channel-setting square princess-cut stones, what is the most critical measurement to verify before setting? → The stone width versus channel width tolerance
11. How do interdisciplinary connections enhance understanding of fundamentals? → They reveal patterns and principles that transcend individual disciplines
12. A platinum ring must be repaired adjacent to a pave-set diamond melee. What is the safest approach? → Use a laser welder to minimize heat spread to the stones
13. Which regulation governs the safe transportation of compressed gas cylinders (oxygen and acetylene) used in jewelry torch work when moved on public roads? → DOT 49 CFR Hazardous Materials Regulations
14. A heavy casting shows a consistent dark line running through the shank visible after polishing. This likely indicates: → A seam or cold-shut defect caused by incomplete metal fusion during casting
15. When performing a two-piece ring shank sizing job, what must a jeweler verify before soldering the new shank section? → Alignment is true so the ring is not twisted after joining
16. A client returns a ring complaining that the shank has thinned significantly after only two years of wear. What is the most likely quality failure? → The shank was cast or fabricated thinner than the minimum specification
17. What makes Argentium silver different from standard sterling silver? → Addition of germanium for tarnish resistance
18. What finishing process involves applying a chemical to darken recessed areas while leaving raised surfaces polished and bright? → Patination or selective oxidizing followed by polishing the high points
19. What is the purpose of investment powder in jewelry casting? → To create a heat-resistant mold that replicates the wax model
20. A customer's piece is marked '18K GF.' During assessment, the jeweler should communicate to the customer that this means: → 18 karat gold-filled, which is a base metal with a bonded gold layer, not solid gold
21. Which statement about the CBJ written knowledge component is accurate? → It covers topics such as metal properties, tool usage, and safety practices
22. A jeweler is setting a row of channel-set princess-cut stones and notices one stone is slightly smaller than the rest. The correct response is to: → Replace the undersized stone with one that matches the specified calibrated size
23. Before registering for the CBJ exam, a candidate must typically provide: → Proof of bench experience verified by an employer or supervisor
24. Which condition would cause a bezel-set stone to appear tilted or off-center after completion? → The bezel seat was filed unevenly, creating a higher bearing on one side
25. In repair documentation, what does the abbreviation 'YG 14k' typically indicate? → Yellow gold, 14 karat purity
26. What is the primary purpose of a job envelope numbering system in a jewelry repair shop? → To track each piece through the shop and link it to its work order
27. What is the purpose of a 'promised by' date field on a repair work order? → To set a deadline that manages customer expectations and shop scheduling
28. Which of the following is a common workplace for a certified bench jeweler? → Jewelry Repair Shops
29. A third-hand (cross-lock tweezers with stand) soldering aid is most useful for: → Holding pieces at a fixed angle relative to each other during soldering
30. A customer's platinum ring has a visible seam crack at the shank. When evaluating repair difficulty, the most important factor is: → The thickness of the remaining metal and width of the crack