Essential Factors to Ponder before Embarking on the Gem-A Gemmology Foundation Program
The Gem-A Gemmology Foundation course offers a comprehensive introduction to the fascinating world of gemstones, equipping students with the essential knowledge and practical skills needed to identify, classify, and test gemstones.
Based in London, with strong relationships with leading laboratories, institutions, and businesses globally, Gem-A is the longest-serving provider of gemmological education in the world. The Foundation course is the first step on a journey of continued learning in gemmology, as the subject is continually evolving and adapting.
The course covers key topics and skills related to gemmology, including an introduction to gems and gemmology, physical and optical properties of gems, gemstone testing techniques, introduction to common gemstones, basic practical skills, and theory and practical assessment. Students will gain a deep understanding of gemstones, from their origins and classifications to their essential properties like refractive index, specific gravity, hardness, and pleochroism.
Practical skills are a significant focus of the course, with students learning to use standard gemmological instruments such as microscopes, refractometers, polariscope, and spectroscope. They will also develop hands-on experience in gem testing and observation to develop detailed gem identification abilities.
Upon completion of the Gemmology Foundation course, students can apply for the Gem-A Gemmology Diploma as a next step. After successfully completing the Diploma, students can apply to become an FGA Member of Gem-A, further enhancing their credentials in the gemmological field.
The course can be studied via Online Distance Learning, with Accredited Teaching Centres, or at Gem-A HQ in London. For those unable to attend workshops in London, Gem-A offers 'Introduction' one-day workshops, including Introduction to Gemmology and Introduction to Practical Gemmology, as a first look at Gem-A education. Alternatively, students can enroll in GemIntro, a short online course.
The Gemmology Foundation course prioritizes both theoretical and practical gemmology, aiming to make students knowledgeable about gemstones on a deeper level. Students will learn how to handle rough, cut, and set gem materials and develop practical skills, such as using hand-held tools and equipment to identify gemstones.
Essential skills for gemologists, such as hand-eye coordination, attention to detail, mathematical skills for valuation and cut assessment, and communication skills for reporting and customer interaction, are nurtured progressively through Gem-A’s courses, starting from the Foundation level.
In summary, the Gem-A Gemmology Foundation course provides foundational knowledge of gemstone properties and hands-on identification techniques, preparing students for further gemmological study and basic practical gem testing. For those interested in learning more about the course, they can contact education@our website to find out whether the Gemmology Foundation course is right for them.
- The Gem-A Gemmology Foundation course, a comprehensive introduction to gemstones, is offered by the longest-serving provider of gemmological education worldwide, based in London.
- The Foundation course equips students with essential knowledge and practical skills to identify, classify, and test gemstones, making them knowledgeable about gemstones on a deeper level.
- Students will learn to use standard gemmological instruments such as microscopes, refractometers, polariscope, and spectroscope, and develop hands-on experience in gem testing and observation.
- Upon completion of the Foundation course, students can apply for the Gem-A Gemmology Diploma, a next step in their journey of continued learning in gemmology.
- After successfully completing the Diploma, students can apply to become an FGA Member of Gem-A, enhancing their credentials in the gemmological field.
- The course can be studied via Online Distance Learning, at Gem-A HQ in London, or through Accredited Teaching Centres.
- Gem-A also offers 'Introduction' one-day workshops and a short online course, GemIntro, for those unable to attend workshops in London.
- Essential skills for gemologists, including hand-eye coordination, attention to detail, mathematical skills, and communication skills, are nurtured progressively through Gem-A’s courses, starting from the Foundation level.
