Certificate in Gemmology
George Brown College
Key Information
Campus location
Toronto, Canada
Languages
English
Study format
On-Campus
Duration
1 year
Pace
Full time
Tuition fees
CAD 17,926 / per year *
Application deadline
Request info
Earliest start date
Request info
* for international students. All fees are subject to change, without notice
Introduction
Leadership Claims
This is the only full-time Gemmology certificate program at an Ontario college.
The Gemmology program teaches you to analyze and classify a wide variety of gem materials, both natural and artificially created. The program focuses on analyzing the chemical and physical characteristics of gem and gemlike materials and identifying different gems. The gem materials are classified into categories according to their desirable characteristics, which eventually determine the value of the gems. To accomplish the identification and classification, you use a number of specially designed instruments, such as microscopes, spectroscopes, refractometers, and polariscopes, on real gem materials.
Visual acuity and accurate color rendition are essential traits for success in gemmology.
Refractive Index liquid (RI liquid), which contains diiodomethane, is a commonly used chemical in gemmology practice. If you are pregnant, have certain medical conditions, or are sensitive to RI liquid, please consult with your physician for advice before you attend this program, as you will be exposed to RI liquid in gemmology lab work.
Program Requirements
- This program requires students to have access to a personal laptop or desktop computer, and reliable internet access for synchronous classes.
- Students will be provided with a list of textbooks required to purchase after registration.
Admissions
Scholarships and Funding
Scholarships for international students at George Brown College are generally in-program awards based on students’ academic performance (and other criteria) at George Brown College after the beginning of the academic program.
Curriculum
Required Courses
Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
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Disclaimer: The information contained is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer, or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College courses and the requirements.
Program Outcome
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Identify a large number of gemstones and gem materials and distinguish them from synthetics and imitations.
- Use, maintain and handle gemological instruments and testing equipment competently and safely.
- Grade gemstones for quality based on their cut, color and other physical characteristics, chemical composition, and possible place of origin.
- Grade diamonds based on their cut, clarity, color, and carat weight.
- Apply the basic skills of jewelry appraisal to assess market value.
- Contextualize jewelry according to historical and stylistic qualities to assess provenance, materials, and method of production.
- Conduct ethical and secure business practices consistent with jewelry business standards.
Career Opportunities
Your Career
Graduates of this program find employment in jewelry enterprises at manufacturing, wholesale and retail levels. With additional training and experience in the jewelry industry, some become jewelry appraisers. Many graduates, with additional study, write the Canadian Gemmological Association professional exams and the British Gemmological Association exams to obtain internationally recognized professional designations.
Industry
The Gemmology industry works in partnership in a number of sectors including:
- retail trade
- repair
- wholesale
- jewelry manufacturing
- mining
- appraisal
- auction houses
- scientific
- technical
Educational Pathways
Opportunities to receive transfer credits toward further study to attain a degree in Jewellery and gemology are available.
Future Study Options
Some credits may be considered for transfer to other Jewellery programs. Graduates with both jewelry and gemmology education have a significant advantage in the workplace.