Which books or online classes for gem education?? (not GIA)

[pinkjewel]

I've always been interested in gemology and thought it would be fun to take some classes and educate myself. Unfortunately, I can't find any classes around me. I looked at GIA's online classes-but,YIKES-the cost is a bit much since I'm not really looking at it as a career. So- if I want to self educate- which books have you found to be best for both diamonds and colored gems? Or are there other online classes that you'd recommend that aren't as expensive as GIA's?
TIA

 

[Rockdiamond]

Re: Which books or online classes for gem education?? (not G

I was never a "book" person.
I got through school, but just because I was able to use just enough skill to make that happen.
I heard a great story told by a teacher recently.
Here's the quote:
"OK- I'm going to tell you something VERY important- so DO NOT WRITE IT DOWN"

This makes perfect sense to me.
If I try to learn something by looking at words, it makes far less of an impression than physically holding and touching things.

Gemology is sooooo this way for me.
GIA graduates have none of the tools they'll need to be successful in this business if their knowledge is based on what GIA taught them.

Anyway, how about getting a part time job at a jewelry store?

 

[pinkjewel]

Re: Which books or online classes for gem education?? (not G

Hi RD,
Now if I had a job with YOU- I could learn something. Heck-I'd even work for free to be around all your FCDs. But, around here a lot of jewelers have downsized or closed. Competition for sales positions are pretty tough and difficult to get without experience.They also want part timers for weekends and/or evenings (if open then) which doesn't work for me. And there just aren't too many stores that are carrying the type of gems I'm really interested in studying.
And I enjoy reading and love going to classes,too. So, with all that in mind-any book recommendations?

 

[MichelleCarmen]

Re: Which books or online classes for gem education?? (not G

Did you look on Amazon? There are a couple of the GIA course books on there every once in a while...some are okay priced and others are a couple hundred. I almost ordered one, but decided to sign up for a class this fall instead (not gem related).