Gemmology Program (F105)

Program Description

Leadership Claims

This is the only full-time gemmology certificate program at an Ontario college.

Program Overview

In our one-year Gemmology certificate program, you'll learn to analyze and classify a wide variety of gem materials, with both natural and artificial origins. You'll delve into the chemical and physical attributes of gems, learning to differentiate between various types using instruments like microscopes, spectroscopes, refractometers, and polariscopes. This knowledge will allow you to classify gem materials based on their desirable characteristics, which ultimately determine their value.

Full Description

In the Gemmology one-year certificate program, you'll embark on a comprehensive exploration of gemstone analysis and classification. Through hands-on learning and using a variety of instruments and testing equipment, you'll learn to identify an array of gemstones and differentiate them from synthetics and imitations.

We'll equip you with the ability to grade gemstones based on their cut, colour, physical attributes, chemical composition, and place of origin. Specifically, you'll gain proficiency in grading diamonds as you consider their cut, clarity, colour, and carat weight.

Beyond gemstone assessment, you'll pick up fundamental skills in jewellery appraisal to evaluate market values. Delving into historical and stylistic dimensions, you'll learn to contextualize jewellery pieces, assessing their provenance, materials, and production methods.

PLEASE NOTE:

  • 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

  • You'll need to have access to a personal laptop or desktop computer, and reliable Internet access for synchronous classes.
  • You'll be provided with a list of textbooks required to purchase after registration.

Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities

Career Options

Graduates of this program find employment in jewellery enterprises at manufacturing, wholesale, and retail levels. With additional training and experience in the jewellery industry, some graduates become jewellery 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 collaborates with many sectors, such as:

  • retail trade
  • repair
  • wholesale
  • jewellery manufacturing
  • mining
  • appraisal
  • auction houses

Educational Pathways

Opportunities to receive transfer credits toward further study to attain a degree in Jewellery and Gemmology are available.

Some credits may be considered for transfer to other jewellery programs. Graduates with both jewellery and gemmology education have a significant advantage in the workplace.

Alumni Impact

We are immensely proud of the contributions of our alumni in Toronto and around the globe.

From Michelin-starred restaurants to major construction, entertainment, community and financial organizations, our graduates are truly making an impact across a range of industries.

Latest Alumni Stories

A photo of graduate Edna I. Milevsky

"As an older student, after having launched and sold a fintech start-up as well as having raised four daughters, I was looking to rekindle my lifetime passion for Jewellery, gemstones and artistic design. George Brown College and its Jewellery Arts program as well as its Gemmology program turned out to be the ideal place for the next step in my lifecycle. It gave me the necessary tools, the critical connections and the nurturing environment to create, experiment and grow. But best of all were the passionate and caring people I met over those wonderful years as a returning student."

Edna I. Milevsky
Ontario College Certificate

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