Graduate Gemologist Program
The most prestigious credential in the industry, the GIA Graduate Gemologist program gives you the comprehensive knowledge of diamonds and colored stones you need to succeed anywhere in the jewelry business. You’ll gain both technical expertise and practical skills to evaluate gemstones by the 4Cs (color, clarity, cut, and carat weight), the International Diamond Grading System™, and the Colored Stone Grading System.
APPLY NOWWhat You'll Learn
- Grade diamonds consistently and accurately in the D-to-Z color range
- Use a microscope, a polariscope, a refractometer, and other gemological equipment
- Identify hundreds of common and unusual gemstones
- Detect synthetics, simulants, and treated gems
- Understand value and the path gems take from mine to market
- Speak the language of gemstones accurately, confidently, and fluently
Possible Career Paths
- Appraiser
- Colored Stone Buyer
- Jewelry Business Owner
- Jewelry Buyer
- Lab & Research Professional
- Retailer
Topics Covered
Here are some of the topics covered in the Graduate Gemologist diploma program.
-
Diamonds and Diamond Grading
Judge and grade diamonds by the 4Cs and color.
-
COLORED STONES & COLORED STONE GRADING
Learn the characteristics of colored stones, with a focus on ruby, sapphire, and emerald.
-
GEM IDENTIFICATION
Identify more than 60 species of gemstones, distinguish natural gems from synthetics, and detect gem treatments.
-
EQUIPMENT & INSTRUMENTATION
Learn diamond identification and grading skills GIA graders use.
-
TREATMENTS, SYNTHETICS & IMITATIONS
Identify diamonds that have been treated or are imitations.
-
MARKETS & SUPPLY CHAINS
Understand how market factors and the supply chain affect value.
Two Ways to Earn the Graduate Gemologist Diploma
GIA offers two learning methods to suit your needs.
Or
Study on campus Accelerated, full-time learning
Immerse yourself in the world of gems and jewelry and earn your Graduate Gemologist diploma by studying on a GIA campus. This transformative 26-week program opens up a world of opportunity.
Explore one of Our Campuses
Distance Education eLearning courses and hands-on lab classes
Acquire the skills to advance your career at a pace that suits your life. Study the same rich Graduate Gemologist curriculum as on-campus students in a program designed for working professionals. Take 5 eLearning courses and 3 lab classes.
Learn More View Required Courses