Why A Gemologist?

The Gemological Institute of America

Located in Carlsbad California, and in New York, the G.I.A. is recognized as the world's premier school of gemology, which is the study of gemstones. The course of study to become a Graduate Gemologist, is very extensive. It includes Diamonds, Coloured Stones, Gem Identification, Diamond Grading, and Guidelines with respect to running a jewellery appraisal and repair service, and many other topics.

Also involved, is instruction in the use of microscopes, refractometers, spectrometers, diamond lights, and other instruments used in the identification and grading of gemstones and diamonds.

Quite intense, the course is designed to produce graduates that are capable of grading and identifying gemstones and interpreting the meaning of proportions, and other details of the stones.

The final exam for a G.G. is a 20 gemstone practical gem identification exercise, where a 100% score is necessary for passage.

Because of this training, a Graduate Gemologist is particularly suited to evaluation of your jewellery and gemstones.

When you purchase your engagement ring, make sure that you require an evaluation by a gemologist, and note their designation on the certificate as "g.g." and "graduate gemologist".

You can also identify an "F.G.A." which is a "Fellow of the Gemological Association of Great Britain", or some other designations from the American Gemological Society, or the Canadian Gemological Institute.

You can rely on any of these designations. In most cases, the jeweller will use the services of a gemologist anyway but you should ask to make sure.

There are currently a lot of people doing jewellery appraisal, who may refer to themselves as "appraisers", but that does not ensure they are gemologists.

A gemologist can do an appraisal for Insurance Replacement (in case of loss or damage), as well as Customs (for when you return from international travel - to avoid having items confiscated).

Your valued pieces of jewellery deserve a Graduate Gemologist.