Graduate Colored Stones Program
Identify a stunning variety of gemstones. Evaluate them by quality, rarity, and color. Study the most effective grading, buying, and selling techniques. A dazzling spectrum of opportunities awaits those who understand the colored stone marketplace.

What You'll Learn
- Build a knowledge base about colored stones and the colored stone market
- Use gemological equipment effectively to identify gemstones
- Use the GIA Colored Stone Grading System to evaluate gemstone quality
- Recognize how quality, rarity, and color affect value
- Determine how market factors affect gem value
- Understand how gems are mined, fashioned, and brought to the marketplace.
Possible Career Paths
- Appraiser
- Auction House Jewelry Specialist
- Colored Stone Buyer
- Estate Jewelry Dealer
- Jewelry Business Owner
- Jewelry Buyer
- Pawn Broker
- Retailer
- Wholesaler
Topics Covered
Here are key topics covered in the Graduate Colored Stones diploma program.

Learn the characteristics of colored stones, with a focus on ruby, sapphire, and emerald.

Identify more than 60 species of gemstones, distinguish natural from laboratory-grown gems, and detect gem treatments.

Learn colored stone identification skills GIA graders use.

Identify gemstones that have been laboratory-grown, treated or are imitations.

Understand how market factors and the supply chain affect value.
GET STARTED
SELECT A CAMPUS AND LEARN MORE

STUDY AT THE GIA SCHOOL ACCELERATED, FULL-TIME LEARNING
Immerse yourself in the world of gems and jewelry and earn your Graduate Colored Stones diploma by studying at a GIA campus. This transformative program opens up a world of opportunity.
Offered at the Following Campuses
Distance Education ONLINE ELEARNING CLASSES + HANDS-ON LAB CLASSES
Complete three eLearning courses and two on-campus lab classes to earn your Graduate Colored Stones diploma. It’s the same prestigious diploma completed at a pace that suits your life.
English language eLearning courses are offered through the Carlsbad campus.