On-Site Study
If you want to live and study in a vibrant city steeped in history then on-site study at Gem-A London is for you. Learn more about the courses we offer on-site, class times, tutors, and more.
Study in the heart of London
Gem-A offer a fantastic range of facilities for on-site learning at our London headquarters. From our dedicated teaching labs to our on-site library and stone collections – we have everything you need for a successful gemmology and diamond education, all under one roof.
The Gem-A library contains hundreds of books dedicated to the study of gemstones and is one of the most comprehensive collections of gemmology texts, and our world-class laboratory contains advanced lab equipment, making it the perfect place to study.
Learn in the historic gem & jewellery quarter
The Gem-A headquarters are conveniently located next to Hatton Garden, the historic gem and jewellery quarter and the heart of London’s gem and jewellery trade, just a short walk from Chancery Lane underground station and Farringdon station.
A vibrant city steeped in culture
When you’re not studying with us there’s lots to see and do: from a range of museums containing hidden gems to monumental landmarks such as St. Paul’s Cathedral, the London Eye, and Buckingham Palace — not to mention countless restaurants, bars, city parks and cafés.
Meet the tutors
Our tutors and guest lecturers are enthusiastic and knowledgeable, with real trade experience, and will ensure that you are provided with a first-class gem education. Students who study on-site are able to see and test a wide variety of gem materials under the guidance of our experienced tutors, as well as benefitting from regular practical lab classes.
Charles Bexfield
Gemmology & Diamond Tutor
Gabriel Kleinberg
Gemmology Tutor
Juliette Hibou
Tutor Coordinator & Gemmology Tutor
Pat Daly
Senior Gemmology Tutor
Upcoming On-Site courses
Use the table below to find an upcoming on-site course
| Code | Name | Start Date | Duration | Courses Days | Price (£) | Enquire |
|---|
*Thursday is half a day for individual practical study at Gem-A, and half a day for home study.
**Diploma Evening classes will run from September 2025.
Ready to apply?
If you wish to apply by post/email please download our PDF application form and send to our London HQ or email to education@gem-a.com. Make sure to review the Terms and Conditions, as you will need to agree to them when completing the application form.
GEM-A LONDON
What can you study on-site?
From workshops to diplomas, every course offered by Gem-A can now be studied on-site in London in either the daytime or the evening. To find course dates, times and further information, choose a course below.
Course Times
Daytime Classes
- 10:00-16:30
Evening Classes
- 18:30-20:30
Gemmology Foundation
- 4 months
- Daytime: Tuesday
- Evening: Mon, Tue
- Certificate in Gemmology
Gemmology Diploma
- 4 or 9 months
- Daytime: Tues, Wed, Thur*
- Evening: Mon, Tue
- Diploma in Gemmology
Visa information
Non-UK residents wishing to study on one of our on-site courses may require a Standard Visitor Visa (allowing short term study for up to 6 months) to study in the UK. To apply for a visa, or for more information, please contact UK Visas and Immigration
Students can use the tool Visa Check to see what they will need to study at Gem-A
Frequently Asked Questions
Course duration depends on the course, method of study, and location. Most on-site courses at Gem-A London are approximately 4 months. The standard-length distance learning courses are 9 months, although there is a 6-month fast-track option only for the online Foundation course for students with prior relevant experience. Contact the education team for more information, or contact your chosen teaching center directly for their schedules.
Gem-A courses and qualifications are both high-level and officially accredited in the UK – Gem-A is an awarding body. This is one reason our qualifications are so highly regarded worldwide. All our courses emphasise the significant importance of rapid, self-reliant observational and practical ability, using a thorough knowledge and understanding of gemmological principles. Gem-A courses also foster the ability to choose appropriate testing methods based on intelligent observation for practical decision-making. The theory part of diploma courses helps you gain a deeper understanding of your decision-making processes in practical gemmology.
To guarantee a place on a course, we suggest that you enrol in June/July for a course starting in the autumn and October/November for one starting in January. Courses are filled on a ‘first come first served’ basis. If a course becomes fully subscribed, you can be placed on a waiting list, and we shall contact you if and when a place becomes available.
