Graduate Gemologist® Program
One of the most prestigious credentials in the industry, the GIA Graduate Gemologist® diploma program gives you the comprehensive knowledge of diamonds and colored stones you need to succeed anywhere in the jewelry business. You’ll gain both technical expertise and practical skills to evaluate gemstones by the 4Cs (color, clarity, cut, and carat weight), the International Diamond Grading System™, and the Colored Stone Grading System.
What You'll Learn
- Develop in-depth, hands-on experience with the GIA International Diamond Grading System™ and the 4Cs (color, clarity, cut and carat weight)
- Grade diamonds in the D-to-Z color range
- Build a knowledge base about colored stones and the colored stone market
- Use gemological equipment effectively to identify gemstones
- Use the GIA Colored Stone Grading System to evaluate gemstone quality
- Identify gemstone characteristics, simulants and treatments, and recognize when advanced testing is required
- Understand how gems are mined, fashioned and brought to the marketplace
- Recognize how quality, rarity and color affect value
- Determine how market factors affect gem value
Possible Career Paths
- Appraiser
- Auction House Jewelry Specialist
- Colored Stone Buyer
- Diamond Buyer
- Diamond Sorter/Grader
- Estate Jewelry Dealer
- Gemologist
- Inventory Control Specialist
- Jewelry Business Owner
- Jewelry Buyer
- Lab and Research Professional
- Merchandiser
- Pawnbroker
- Retailer
- Sales Associate
- Wholesaler
