• Common natural & synthetic gemstones
• Typical imitations

   

Basic Gemstone Identification and Instrumentation........................................ 1 week  

This class is an introduction to using gemological testing equipment and using their results to identify gemstones.  This class will focus on learning to use the gem testing instruments with reliable and reproducible results. A byproduct of learning to use these tools correctly is that you may be able to identify a gemstone or narrow down the identity to very few options. We’ll concentrate on visual observation and some of the primary tests for gem identification. Much of the time will be spent in hands-on lab.

Gem identification instruments, reference sources and gemstone samples will be available for use during the class. Useful book titles will be suggested.

 Please do not bring in any gem or jewelry samples until cleared with the instructor. 

Tools and Techniques Covered 

• Visual Observation
• Polaroid Filter
• Polariscope
• Refractometer
• Loupe and penlight
• Long- and short-wave ultraviolet light
• Microscope
• Dichroscope
• Using various criteria to identify stones

 Intermediate Gemstone Identification................................................................. 1 week

This course builds on the skills learned in the basic identification course, expanding upon instrument usage by testing for specific reactions to specific stone combinations. 

The spectroscope, as well as other additional tools, will be introduced, and gemstones with difficult properties will be studied. Gem sorting techniques will be covered, and the student will continue to practice and refine visual observation techniques.  

While the basic course focuses on familiarizing the student with various instruments, this course focuses on decision-making and the selection and use of diagnostic tools.

Please do not bring in any gem or jewelry samples until cleared with the instructor.  

Tools (in addition to those learned in the Basic course)  

• Spectroscope
• Various gem filters (Chelsea, tanzanite, etc.)
• Advanced microscope techniques

   

Stones  

• Collector’s stones and minerals
• Wider variety of treated stones and imitations
• More challenging synthetics
• Stones with weak reactions vs. stones with strong reactions

   

Using Magnification to Identify Gemstones....................................................... 3 weeks
This course teaches students to recognize inclusions and other characteristics that can help identify gemstones. Students will learn that some stones have unique identifying characteristics, while others share inclusion types with one or more gemstone varieties & species. Students will learn to optimize the magnification & lighting features of the microscope to recognize characteristics that help gemologists identify stones. Stone sets will include natural, synthetic, imitation, and treated gemstones selected for their unique inclusions or for inclusion types shared by other gemstones. While this course emphasizes the use of the microscope, the skills learned can be adapted to the use of a loupe or other magnifying device. Microscopes and gemstone sets will be available for use during class time and labs. Teaching tools will include slides, photographs and live video magnification. Techniques of identifying inclusions will be demonstrated

Identifying Synthetic Gems, Imitations and Treatments 

 

GEM-104 ...................................................................................................................................... 3 weeks

Diamond Grading

GEM-105 ...................................................................................................................................... 3 weeks

Colored Stone Grading

GEM-108 ...................................................................................................................................... 1 week

Gem Identification Using Portable and Alternative Tools Including Sight Identifying