Study with Gem-A
Gem-A’s prestigious gemmology and diamond courses are now taught in over 26 countries around the world. You can study at Gem-A London, online or in person through our accredited teaching centres. What will you study with Gem-A?
GemINTRO Online Course
GemIntro is an online-only short course that provides the fundamentals of gemmology, giving you the knowledge you need to progress onto the Gemmology Foundation course. GemINTRO is an optional course.
Gemmology Foundation
Gemmology Diploma
Through the Gemmology Diploma, you will gain a deeper understanding of gems, building on the practical and theoretical knowledge learned in your Foundation studies.
Download the Prospectus
Find out more about Gem-A by downloading the prospectus. You will find information about our courses, Gem-A’s history, student services and the world-renowned FGA DGA membership.
Diamond Grading
This optional, five-day in-person diamond grading course, culminating in a final exam, has been specially designed by Gem-A to serve those who are looking to expand their diamond skills and experience in a short period of time.
Diamond Diploma
On the Diamond Diploma course, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of diamonds and how the diamond market operates, enabling you to explore new career opportunities or enhance an existing career in a range of fields.
SINCE 1908
Routes of study
Not sure where to begin? There are many routes of study open to you, whether that’s starting with our short workshops, online introductory course, or Gem-A’s prestigious foundation courses. Find your study route below.
Gemmology
Eligibility for FGA membership status
Diamonds
Eligibility for DGA membership status
*Optional Courses: These courses are not required to become a DGA / FGA member or for applying to th BSC in Gemmology & Jewellery Studies
Further study
If you’ve completed a Gemmology Diploma and you want to advance your academic studies and professional accreditations, there are two further study routes available for you – a BSc in Jewellery & Gemmology Studies and the FEEG Diploma.
Workshops
Whether you’re a retailer, dealer, buyer, valuer, auctioneer or gemstone enthusiast, Gem-A’s workshops have been designed to give you exceptional gemstone and diamond education at your convenience. From hands-on workshops at Gem-A London to bite-size online lectures covering theoretical concepts, we’ve made it easy for you to elevate your knowledge.
Teaching centres
Our Accredited Teaching Centres (ATCs) are institutions, universities and trade organisations that have been approved to teach Gem-A courses using our course notes and equipment. They’re a great way for students outside the UK to have on-site, face-to-face tuition in their own region and study in their own language.
RESOURCES
Student Resources
If you’re currently studying at Gem-A, here is some additional information that will help support your learning, including our prospectus, exam information, further study, and student services.
Frequently Asked Questions
As part of your student membership, you will have access to two online gemmology publications that are released quarterly: The Journal of Gemmology and Gems&Jewellery, as well as being eligible for a discount in the Gem-A Instruments shop. You will also have access to a special student ticket price for networking events such as the annual Gem-A conference. Students can also apply for a Totum Pro discount card (for UK discounts).
Unless there are proven mitigating circumstances, students will not be able to re-do any assessments. If you are in a situation that you believe would constitute mitigating circumstances, please contact your tutor as soon as you can. More information can be found in the Student Policies and Procedures.
Gem-A can consider additional support for individuals who are disabled, have a learning difficulty or long-term medical condition. If this applies to you, please contact our Student Support Officer at studentservices@gem-a.com to find out more.
Students will be using refractive index (RI) liquid in their practical gem testing sessions or lab classes when using a refractometer. RI liquid is commonly used in gemmology when using a refractometer. The Gem-A course extensively covers the appropriate use of refractometers, and therefore, to successfully complete the Gemmology Diploma, you will be required to use the RI fluid. In a classroom environment, the Gem-A tutors will provide you with appropriate information regarding the RI liquid, and you will be taught the recommended handling procedures. Only a tiny drop of RI liquid is used in testing, and the cap on the bottle is always replaced. It is your responsibility to ensure that you appropriately follow the instructions and information provided by your tutor on the use of the RI liquid. Gloves will be provided if you require them when using the RI liquid at the London teaching center.
RI liquid contains diiodomethane, and you may need to exercise precautions if you are pregnant, if you have certain medical conditions, and if you have sensitivity to, or are allergic to, this chemical. Again, your tutors will provide the required information on handling procedures. Please inform your tutors so that they are aware of your needs. If you are unsure, contact your doctor for advice. If you are pregnant, please consider that you may also be sensitive to the smell, which may make you nauseous.
If you are unsure about using RI liquid or if your doctor has advised against using it, please contact education@gem-a.com for further advice or for a copy of the Material Data Sheet.
For each course, the recommended self-study hours per week, including time for the reading of the course notes, completing any homework (onsite studies only), and end-of-block reviews and online assessments, are:
Gemmology Foundation
- Evening: 6 to 8 hours
- Daytime: 4 to 6 hours
- ODL: 6 to 8 hours
- ODL Fast track: 10 to 12 hours
Gemmology Diploma
- Evening: 8 to 10 hours
- Daytime: 6 to 8 hours
- ODL: 10 to 12 hours
Diamond Diploma
- Evening: 10 to 12 hours
- Daytime: 8 to 10 hours
- ODL: 8 to 10 hours
