Find your diamond
Find your jewelry
shape
carat
color
clarity

Advice for Aspiring Gemologist?

A

AprilEleven

Rough_Rock
Joined
Apr 22, 2014
Messages
5
Hello :)

So I've been lurking on these forums for a long time now, and I'm so excited to finally post, I'm almost giddy!

I am looking for advice from any of those "in the know" out there on how to make a career in the world of gemology. I have always had a fascination with gems, but I really became motivated to learn more about diamonds and this field about a year ago when I sold my own diamond engagement ring after getting divorced. Sad to give up my diamond, but it sparked my interest in this industry!

I have no certification or experience... in fact I studied French and German in college at Harvard and have been in business development/sales since graduating four years ago. But I absolutely love learning about diamonds and other gems, and I would really like to be able to pursue a career as a gemologist. I have been reading a bunch and looking at courses, but that has led me to a zillion questions. I am particularly fascinated with diamond sales, lab created diamonds and gems, technology, and appraisal. But I really have no idea exactly what I want to do; I just want to find a way to make money in the industry and see where that takes me. I figured that with all the experts and diamond fanatics on this site, maybe someone would have some wisdom for me! :wavey:

Any specific ideas on how to gain experience? Everyone seems to recommend getting experience, but I have no idea where to even start. I live in a suburb of Chicago, and there are a bunch of retail jewelry stores, and I believe there are diamond exchanges, but I'm not sure how to get involved in any of that. I honestly don't know that much about how this industry works behind the scenes.

Education-wise-- is GIA Graduate Gemologist the only way to go? I'm near Chicago, so I'm not sure if there is any reputable local option or a less expensive alternative for certification. International School of Gemology has an affordable distance-ed appraisal and registered gemologist program that seems interesting, but I have no idea if it's the right thing for a beginner or if it's even a good program.

Anyway, I would greatly appreciate any insight anyone has to offer! Thank you!
 
I am *not* a gemologist, but did take some gemology courses a number of years ago.

I would definitely recommend the same to you to explore if this is a field you do in fact love. I found out that while I love finished cut stones and jewelry, I found gemology itself not that interesting.

Also research income levels for gemologists... ensure it fits with your expectations. My gemology professor had multiple designations, taught in a respected gemology school and practiced privately, and felt she was not making a great living.

In her opinion, the "best" gemology designation is FGA. She felt it is the most science-based. I personally don't know enough to have an opinion.

BTW, I found this site that may help you: http://www.yourgemologist.com/gemologist.html

Not to dissuade you! Just like anything, do your research, like you are doing. :)

Good luck!!

Anne
 
Thanks for your replies! That's good to know...

Any advice on how to build experience while talking courses?
 
Nothing is better than learning "in the trenches" with a seasoned jewelry store owner with a strong reputation in the business and community. There is no substitute for real world experience even if it's part-time. Most every independent appraiser I know began in retail sales. I learned the estate buying business from one of the best in the business. He was a great mentor. Learn as much as you can. Read the trade magazines. Talk to appraisers and jewelry store owners in your area. Best wishes and good luck!
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
GET 3 FREE HCA RESULTS JOIN THE FORUM. ASK FOR HELP
Jewelry Blog
PriceScope-Concierge-Ad
Find prime cuts.
Top