Gemology: An offbeat career option for kids
Gems have intrigued human beings ever since they were discovered. The modern, scientific world of gemology has made it easier for people find out the history, significance and processing. Gemologists look at the atomic structure of gemstones like emeralds, sapphires, and diamonds to figure out their origins and ways to prevent damage.
The discipline of analysing, cutting, and appraising valuable stones is known as gemology. However, the primary goal of learning Gemology is to identify gemstones. Students who are fascinated by gem stones, can pursue a career as gemologist.
Courses available
Interested candidates can enroll themselves in diploma and undergraduate courses on gemology after Class 12.
The diploma (3 months-1 year) courses include:
- Diploma in Gemmology
- Diploma in Diamond Grading
- Diploma in Jewellery Designing
The undergraduate courses (3 years) include:
- B.Sc in Gemology
- B.Des in Jewellery Design
Institutes for studying gemology in India
Indian Institute of Gemology, New Delhi, Indian Institute of Gems and Jewellery, Mumbai, GD Goenka University, Gurugram, Gemological Institute of India, Mumbai, National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad, National Institute of Fashion Technology, New Delhi, Pearl Academy of Fashion, Jaipur and Indian Institute of Jewellery, Mumbai are some of the well-known colleges for pursuing gemology and jewellery designing courses in India.
Subjects taught in a gemology course
Identification and colouring of stones, design methodology, ornamental designing, metallurgical processes, introduction to instruments in gemology, diamond grading, mining of gems, gem cutting, synthetic gems and methods of identification, optics, light and colour, nature of crystals, cost-based designing, chemical composition and properties of gemstones, theme-based designing and marketing of gemstones are the prominent topics taught as part of the gemology programmes at the diploma and undergraduate levels in India.
Eligibility criteria
Candidates must have completed Class 12 with a minimum of 50% aggregate from an Indian recognised board. They may be required to take entrance exams and clear personal interviews/group discussion rounds, if required by different colleges and universities. National Institute of Design Aptitude Test (NIDAT) and National Institute of Fashion Technology Aptitude Test (NIFTAT) are some popular entrance exams for securing an admission to the jewellery design and gemology course.
Attributes required
Gemology is both science and an art. To excel in this field, students must have the following attributes and skills: a sense of design and appreciation of quality, a keen eye for observation, precision to detail, good hand-eye coordination, awareness of different colours, creativity, analytical and communication skills.
Career options and Placement opportunities
Gemologists have more opportunity to employ their skills as the demand for precious stone jewellery grows. Gemologists might find work in a variety of professions in the jewellery industry. They'll also notice lucrative chances in industrial fields such as gem cutting, sprucing, and treatment of unpolished stones. The popular job profiles in this field are diamond graders, jewellery designers, gem polishers, gemologists and researchers hired by gem testing labs and jewellery design houses.