Description
Gems & Gemmology Workshop
This one-day workshop will give you a solid overview of many of the key topics relating to gems and gemmology, covering scientific aspects of the subject, the journey of a gemstone and the practical side of gem properties and identification. You will learn to use some of the main gemmologist’s tools and have a chance to examine a wide range of gemstones.
The general areas that we look at are:
– General Introduction
– The World of Gemstones
– Properties & Identification
– Grading & Buying
This course is suitable for complete beginners to the subject and will also interest those with some previous knowledge, such as jewellery makers who want to learn more about the materials they use.
The main topics covered are:
Gemmological science
Gemstone formation
Gem basics & terminology
Types of gem material – inorganic / organic /synthetics / simulants
Treatments
Physical and optical properties (overview)
Diamond producers & mining
Sources of coloured gemstones & gem mining
Artisanal mining case study (Sri Lanka) – process, structure, traditions
Gem identification
Gemstone properties – rough and faceted
Inclusions – examples of typical inclusions
Tools & instruments – descriptions and usage
Practical tasks for gem identification
Gem grading and valuation – the factors that affect prices for diamonds and coloured gemstones
Buying tips