Help

Gem-A Courses FAQ

The Gemmological Association of Great Britain, or Gem-A, is the world’s longest running gemological education organization, based in London, England. They are a non-profit organization committed to promoting the study of gemology through the provision of education, equipment and membership to an international community of gem professionals and enthusiasts. Gem-A seeks to serve the best interests of the gem and jewelry industry worldwide through its commitment to supporting best practices in gemological research, education and trade standards.

The roots of Gem-A can be traced back as early as 1908 when a gem training course was proposed for the jewelry industry by the gemological committee known as the National Association of Goldsmiths (N.A.G.). This was the start of what was to become the Gem-A’s Gemmology Diploma, which today is Gem-A’s flagship course, alongside the Diamond Diploma, as well as various workshops and events.

This committee matured into the Gemmological Association of Great Britain, a Branch of N.A.G., and eventually became a wholly independent organization. Now Gem-A is a registered UK charity and its gemology and diamond courses are taught in some 25 countries worldwide. Gem-A’s prestigious diplomas in Gemmlogy and Diamonds are now globally recognized as qualifications of the highest status.

The online Gem-A course has been designed to provide you with basic gemstone information that you may need in your professional career or, if you simply love gemstones, in your quest to learn more about gems and gemology. The GemBasics course, which retails for $499.99, is a series of 12 video lessons, some with sub sections. It includes all the gemological tools, gemstones and specimens that you will need to successfully complete the course.

The GemBasics course is designed for collectors, hobbyists and anyone who is passionate about gemstones. Or perhaps you may want to take a refresher course for your current career position or you may have just chosen the gemstone and jewelry industry as your desired career path. Regardless of the reason, Gem-A’s online course is for you. In simple, easy-to-understand language and practical applications, we believe you will consider the knowledge you gain from this course invaluable in your future endeavors. Whether you’re a novice or budding gemologist, there’s something for everyone to learn with this course!

There are many reasons that people study with Gem-A:

  • First and foremost, Gem-A is the longest-established provider of gem education in the world, now established for over 100 years.
  • Gem-A offers advanced gemological courses. Advanced studies include a Foundation Certificate and a Gemmology Diploma.
  • Gem-A’s Gemmology Diploma, comparable to other internationally recognized gemological diploma courses, is designed to enhance your gemological skills, giving you the essential skills needed to handle, test and identify a wide variety of gemstones.
  • All of Gem-A’s courses cover a wide base of knowledge and prepare you for a career progression in the gem and jewelry industry.

There are two ways to enroll:

  • Call in and speak with one of our friendly Customer Care associates to enroll
  • Go to http://www.jtv.com/gembasics and enroll online

Since this is an online program, you will receive the gemstones, specimens, tools and videos that are included to complete the 12 lessons in your course. Dr. Jack Ogden, former Gem-A CEO and now in charge of Gem-A’s International Development, Media and Communications, is the renowned expert who will lead you through each chapter with his expert knowledge of the jewelry and gemstone industry.

Once your course order is processed, you will receive a package containing your gemstones, specimens, tools and course notes. You will also receive a welcoming email from Gem-A that includes your unique online course log-in. This course allows you to work at your own pace and when you finish it successfully, you will receive a statement of achievement from Gem-A recognizing you as a Colored Stone Associate.

If you have questions or concerns about your course work, there is online support available at Gem-A. If you experience difficulty during the registration process, feel free to call one of our Customer Experience team members.

Gem-A allows you 12 months to complete the GemBasics course.

Upon successful completion of the course, you will receive a certificate of achievement declaring you are now a Colored Stone Associate directly from Gem-A. Achieving this milestone also gives you the opportunity to use the letters Gem-A C.S.A. as part of your professional and credentialed signature.

 

If you choose to continue your gemological education with Gem-A, you can contact them by accessing their website: www.gem-a.com