Your Participation

If you want to gain gem identification skills, you must be committed to your studies and give them the time and attention they deserve. Some procedures and tests might seem confusing and lengthy at first, but with practice you should be able to do them quickly and accurately.

Because you base identifications on the data you record while testing, you must keep careful records. Your identification worksheets should be neat, with the results of all required tests entered. Attention to detail is especially important now because once you’re working in the trade, a wrong identification can damage your reputation and cost you money.

After you complete the course, it’s important to keep up with new developments in gemology. One way to do this is to read professional journals like Gems & Gemology regularly. Another way is to take advantage of any GIA Lab classes or gem identification seminars offered in your area.

Professional journals like Gems & Gemology, published by GIA, help you keep up with developments in the gem and jewelry industry.