Gemologist Training Programs

Gemology certification programs teach students the needed skills to work as a gemologist. A gemologist works to grade, describe and certify the quality of a gem. For example, a gemologist may work grading gemstones for a jewelry manufacturer or certify the grades of diamonds received by a retail jewelry store. Those interested in becoming gemologists have a number of options for receiving certification.

Certificate Programs

Students may earn a gemologist certificate from a college or university. A full-time student can generally complete a gemologist certificate program in a year. In these programs, a student learns the basics of identifying and grading diamonds and other gemstones, methods of estimating value, and basic laws regulating the industry. Certificate programs may also include classes related to the jewelry business such as appraising gemstones and jewelry, as well as courses related to precious metals, pearls and other items common to the jewelry business.

Degree Programs

In addition to certificate programs, a student may also choose to pursue a two-year associate degree in gemology at certain schools. Students who complete a gemology degree learn more in-depth skills and knowledge than those attained by students completing only the courses for a certificate. In addition to the required courses, degree programs offer students numerous elective classes that allow a student to focus on a specific area of study, as well as courses in related fields such as business administration and marketing.

GIA Diploma

Another option for students interested in gemology to consider is the graduate gemologist program from the Gemology Institute of America (GIA). In this program, a student can learn about each step of the gemology trade from harvesting the stones to retailing. Available on line or on site, this program takes 26 weeks to complete onsite, with an online student being able to work at his on pace. The GIA also offers other diploma and certificate courses.

Other Information

Gemology is not a common course offering at most colleges and universities. Students may have to relocate to pursue this education, though students may complete some courses and certifications online. Though each type of education offers benefits to a student, students who complete more advanced work will likely qualify for higher paying positions and advance more quickly in the profession. Many certificate programs will qualify a student for entry level at the retail or wholesale level, while degree programs and advanced certification may help a student to find higher level work with diamond and gemstone importers and completing more complex appraisals and other duties at the wholesale and retail level.