Canadian Gemmological Open House November 16th, 2016
September is the time to start a new course? Why not consider taking a gemmology class this fall?
Canadian Gemmological Association
If you missed our recent open house then you are invited to call or email the Canadian Gemmological Association. Drop by to meet our staff and see what our classroom offers.
You are invited to attend our next open house in the CGA classroom at 55 Queen Street East in the Lower Concourse level.
Come to an OPEN HOUSE in our downtown Toronto classroom!
Wednesday November 16th, 2016, 5:30 pm – 6:45 pm
Lower Concourse, 55 Queen Street East, Toronto, ON M5C 1R6
Learn about full-time day or part-time evening courses in Toronto
- Discover the internal world of gemstones through a microscope
- Try out the instruments used for gem identification
- Share your passion for gems with CGA faculty and CGA members
If you are unable to make it to this year’s Open House, please contact us to book an appointment to learn more about our courses.
The CGA’s courses provide essential professional training to the gem and jewellery trade. For the new-entrant, the trade veteran or the hobbyist, the more you know, the more you’ll appreciate this fascinating field. In addition to our professional gemmology programs, the CGA also offers general interest classes and advanced courses.
Fall 2016 Vocational Programs
Gemmology Accelerated Program – Daytime1
- September 6/16 to December 22/16 ALSO February 6/17 to May 25/17
- (We register only 9 students for each session.)
- The course runs twice a year.
- 4 days/week (Mon-Thurs) Learn more…
Jewellery Associate – Gemmology Specialist2
- Tuesday evenings 6pm to 9pm (one night a week)
- September 20/16 to May 16/17 (This is the first year of a two year evening program)
- The second year of the two year evening program (Gemmology Program1) requires two nights a week – Mondays & Thursdays – Sept 2017 to May 2018. Learn more…
- 1Qualifies the successful student to write the CGA’s Fellowship examinations upon successful completion.
- 2Qualifies the successful student to write the CGA’s examinations for the preliminary Certificate in Gemmology
Study in Toronto, Vancouver or California!
You can attend the Canadian Gemmological Association’s Professional Gemmology courses in three locations:
- Toronto, Ontario – at the CGA Classroom at 55 Queen Street East, Lower Concourse, Room 105.
- Vancouver, British Columbia – at the Vancouver Community College
- Sacramento County, California – at the California Institute of Jewelry Training, 5805 Windmill Way, Carmichael, CA
General Interest Gemmology and Jewellery Classes
General interest courses are for persons who want to learn more about gems without undertaking professional training. Pre-registration is required for these classes. These classes are offered in Toronto only.
- Gem Appreciation – This is a 1-day, 5-hour general interest course designed to widen the knowledge of anyone interested in gems. It is particularly recommended for the consumer who wishes to make informed decisions when purchasing fine gemstones and gem-set jewellery, excluding diamonds.
- Practical Gem Identification – This 10-hour, 2 day course, stresses the “how to” of gem identification and is the follow-up to Gem Appreciation. Learning basic instrumentation will show you how a gemmologist can distinguish between natural, synthetic and imitation gems found in modern and antique jewellery. Gem testing instruments are provided, but students should have their own pocket instruments (loupe, tweezers). We sell gemmological instruments.
- Talking Diamonds – This 5-hour seminar cuts through the industry jargon and provides practical, easy-to-understand information about diamonds. It is intended for the first-time purchaser, or anyone interested in learning more about these fascinating gems.
- Pearl Stringing – This 3-hour workshop provides hands-on experience in stringing pearls and beads, thus allowing you to make your own beautiful jewellery. There is a small additional cost for materials (silk thread, clasp) payable to the course instructor.
- NEW! Diamond & Diamond Imitations – This two-day workshop will benefit anyone who wants to be able to identify diamond simulants. This course is recommended for gem trade professionals, gemmology students and enthusiasts alike. Students will learn the skills to recognize the physical and optical properties of diamonds, synthetic diamonds and diamonds imitations. Learn to use gemmological instruments used to distinguish between and identify diamond, synthetic diamond and imitations of diamonds such as cubic zirconia, synthetic moissanite, strontium titanate and synthetic spinel.
- Individual lectures are also available on Tiaras, History of the Ring and a variety of other gemmology and jewellery topics.
Advanced Courses in Gemology
The CGA’s advanced courses are designed for trade professionals who have a professional gemmology diploma or are current gemmology students. Pre-registration is required for these courses.
Curved Striations Photo by J. McKercher
- Sophisticated Synthetics and Gemstone Enhancements– Bring your knowledge of the important gemstones up to date! Emeralds, sapphires, rubies and diamonds are valuable gems for which many simulants and synthetic counterparts exist, and which are frequently enhanced.The primary focus of these workshops is on the nature and occurrence of inclusions within the various “sophisticated” synthetics, and the detection of new methods of enhancement. Participants will have a chance to practice the various techniques and tips provided for distinguishing naturals from synthetics and for detecting enhancements using gemmological equipment.
- Coloured Gemstone Grading and Evaluation– This three-day workshop will benefit gem trade professionals, gemmology students and enthusiasts alike. Students will learn the skills to accurately grade and value coloured gemstones. Emphasis on hands-on practice with a variety of gems of different quality will provide students with the knowledge to become confident buyers and sellers in the rapidly growing coloured stone market.
Learn Canadian Professional Diamond Grading
Photo by J McKercher
This an intensive, hands-on course which will provide knowledge and skill in the grading of colourless, round brilliant cut diamonds. Please note: this course focuses on the diamond grading process, not the identification of diamond and/or its simulants. All necessary major equipment is provided, but students should bring their own pocket instruments (which are available at reasonable cost on-site). Required course textbook may be purchased separately. Class size is limited to a maximum of 8 students.
Prerequisites: None – Suggested preparation would be the one day Talking Diamonds class and the Diamond & Diamond Imitations (hands on identification of colourless diamond imitations).
NEW! Master Valuer Jewellery Appraisal Program, Starting August 2016!
Photo by J. McKercher
Appraisal course syllabus
Types of Appraisals
Evaluation Approaches
Valuation Levels
Receiving Procedures
Metal Testing
Receipt Procedures
Accurate Descriptions and costing
Worksheets and Documentation
Sources of Information
Colour and Cut (make) grading of Coloured stones
Briefly watches-
Unusual Stones
Vintage or Antique Jewellery
Hallmarking
The Master Valuer designation is recognized by the Canadian Jewelers Association as fulfilling their appraisal educational requirements to enable their members to be awarded the Accredited Appraiser (AAP) designation. In order to obtain your registered master valuer accreditation you must obtain a a recognized gemmological credential (e.g., FCGmA, FGA, FGAA, GG, etc.). Contact the administrative office at 647-466-2436 or info@canadiangemmological.com for details. Learn more…
Professional Vocational Gemmologist Courses
Peridot Inclusion
For over 57 years, the CGA has offered professional gemmological training in Canada, preparing students to earn the internationally recognized Diploma in Gemmology, and Fellowship with the CGA (FCGmA).
This professional course can be taken two different ways:
Evening Classes over two years – once a week for the first year and twice a week during the second year.
Daytime Accelerated Program – a 16 week intensive course on Mondays to Thursdays from 10am to 4pm, starting in September or February.
Learn more about professional gemmologist courses…
The Canadian Gemmological Association is Canada’s professional organization for the practice of gemmology. The Canadian Gemmological Association website contains information about the organization, including information on courses, membership, meeting times, annual Gem Conferences and more. Contact the administrative office at 647-466-2436 or info@canadiangemmological.com for details.
CGA Gemmological Classroom
Canadian Gemmological Open House August 23, 2016
September is the time to start a new course? Why not consider taking a gemmology class this fall?
Canadian Gemmological Association
You are invited to attend an OPEN HOUSE at the CGA downtown Toronto classroom!
Two NEW classes will be introduced this summer!
Tuesday August 23, 2016 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Lower Concourse, 55 Queen Street East, Toronto, ON M5C 1R6
Learn about full-time day or part-time evening courses in Toronto
- Discover the internal world of gemstones through a microscope
- Try out the instruments used for gem identification
- Share your passion for gems with CGA faculty and CGA members
If you are unable to make it to this year’s Open House, please contact us to book an appointment to learn more about our courses.
The CGA’s courses provide essential professional training to the gem and jewellery trade. For the new-entrant, the trade veteran or the hobbyist, the more you know, the more you’ll appreciate this fascinating field. In addition to our professional gemmology programs, the CGA also offers general interest classes and advanced courses.
Fall 2016 Vocational Programs
Gemmology Accelerated Program – Daytime1
- September 6/16 to December 22/16
- (This session is filling up quickly, only 9 students will be accepted for each session.)
- Another accelerated session will be held Feb 2nd, 2015 to May 21st, 2015
- 4 days/week (Mon-Thurs)
Jewellery Associate – Gemmology Specialist2
- Tuesday evenings 6pm to 9pm (one night a week)
- September 20/16 to May 16/17 (This is the first year of a two year evening program)
- The second year of the two year evening program (Gemmology Program1) requires two nights a week – Mondays & Thursdays – Sept 2017 to May 2018.
- 1Qualifies the successful student to write the CGA’s professional level fellowship qualifying exams
- 2Qualifies the successful student to write the CGA’s preliminary level fellowship qualifying exams
Study in Toronto, Vancouver or California!
You can attend the Canadian Gemmological Association’s Professional Gemmology courses in three locations:
- Toronto, Ontario – at the CGA Classroom at 55 Queen Street East, Lower Concourse, Room 105.
- Vancouver, British Columbia – at the Vancouver Community College
- Sacramento County, California – at the California Institute of Jewelry Training, 5805 Windmill Way, Carmichael, CA
General Interest Gemmology and Jewellery Classes
General interest courses are for persons who want to learn more about gems without undertaking professional training. Pre-registration is required for these classes. These classes are offered in Toronto only.
- Gem Appreciation – This is a 1-day, 5-hour general interest course designed to widen the knowledge of anyone interested in gems. It is particularly recommended for the consumer who wishes to make informed decisions when purchasing fine gemstones and gem-set jewellery, excluding diamonds.
- Practical Gem Identification – This 10-hour, 2 day course, stresses the “how to” of gem identification and is the follow-up to Gem Appreciation. Learning basic instrumentation will show you how a gemmologist can distinguish between natural, synthetic and imitation gems found in modern and antique jewellery. Gem testing instruments are provided, but students should have their own pocket instruments (loupe, tweezers). We sell gemmological instruments.
- Talking Diamonds – This 5-hour seminar cuts through the industry jargon and provides practical, easy-to-understand information about diamonds. It is intended for the first-time purchaser, or anyone interested in learning more about these fascinating gems.
- NEW – Diamond and Diamond Imitations – This 2-day (12 hour) course teaches the students to identify diamonds and diamond simulants. It is intended for the student planning to take a diamond grading course or anyone interested in diamond simulants. Can you identify a CZ, natural zircon, synthetic moissanite, YAG, GGG, synthetic rutile, strontium titanate and more?
- Pearl Stringing – This 3-hour workshop provides hands-on experience in stringing pearls and beads, thus allowing you to make your own beautiful jewellery. There is a small additional cost for materials (silk thread, clasp) payable to the course instructor.
- Individual lectures are also available on Tiaras, History of the Ring and a variety of other gemmology and jewellery topics.
Advanced Courses in Gemology
The CGA’s advanced courses are designed for trade professionals who have a professional gemmology diploma or are current gemmology students. Pre-registration is required for these courses.
Bull’s Eye in the Conoscope on a Polariscope Photo by J. McKercher
- Sophisticated Synthetics and Gemstone Enhancements– Bring your knowledge of the important gemstones up to date! Emeralds, sapphires, rubies and diamonds are valuable gems for which many simulants and synthetic counterparts exist, and which are frequently enhanced.The primary focus of these workshops is on the nature and occurrence of inclusions within the various “sophisticated” synthetics, and the detection of new methods of enhancement. Participants will have a chance to practice the various techniques and tips provided for distinguishing naturals from synthetics and for detecting enhancements using gemmological equipment.
- Coloured Stone Grading and Valuation– This three-day workshop will benefit gem trade professionals, gemmology students and enthusiasts alike. Students will learn the skills to accurately grade and value coloured gemstones. Emphasis on hands-on practice with a variety of gems of different quality will provide students with the knowledge to become confident buyers and sellers in the rapidly growing coloured stone market.
Learn Canadian Professional Diamond Grading
Photo by J McKercher
This an intensive, hands-on course which will provide knowledge and skill in the grading of colourless, round brilliant cut diamonds. Please note: this course focuses on the diamond grading process, not the identification of diamond and/or its simulants. All necessary major equipment is provided, but students should bring their own pocket instruments (which are available at reasonable cost on-site). Required course textbook may be purchased separately. Class size is limited to a maximum of 8 students.
No Prerequisites: If you do not have industry experience then we recommend that you attend a one day Talking Diamonds class. If you are unable to differentiate between a diamond and its imitations (CZ, synthetic moissanite, synthetic rutile, zircon, strontium titanate…) then we recommend that you take our new two day class called Diamond and Diamond Imitations.
NEW– Master Valuer Jewellery Appraisal Program
Seven weekends from Aug. 6, 2016 to Nov. 13, 2016
August 6-7, August 27-28, September 10-11, October 1-2, October 8-9, November 12-13, 2016
All days will be 9.30am-5pm.
Photo by J. McKercher
Appraisal course syllabus
Types of Appraisals
Evaluation Approaches
Valuation Levels
Receiving Procedures
Metal Testing
Receipt Procedures
Accurate Descriptions and costing
Worksheets and Documentation
Sources of Information
Colour and Cut (make) grading of Coloured stones
Briefly watches-
Unusual Stones
Vintage or Antique Jewellery
Hallmarking
Contact the administrative office at 647-466-2436 or info@canadiangemmological.com for details.
Professional Vocational Gemmologist Courses
Peridot Inclusion
For over 55 years, the CGA has offered professional gemmological training in Canada, preparing students to earn the internationally recognized Diploma in Gemmology, and Fellowship with the CGA (FCGmA).
This professional course can be taken two different ways:
Evening Classes over two years – once a week for the first year and twice a week during the second year.
Daytime Accelerated Program – a 16 week intensive course on Mondays to Thursdays from 10am to 4pm, starting in September or February.
The Canadian Gemmological Association is Canada’s professional organization for the practice of gemmology. The Canadian Gemmological Association website contains information about the organization, including information on courses, membership, meeting times, annual Gem Conferences and more. Contact the administrative office at 647-466-2436 or info@canadiangemmological.com for details.
CGA Gemmological Classroom
Canadian Gemmological Open Houses June 23 & August 17, 2015
September is the time to start a new course? Why not consider taking a gemmology class this fall?
Canadian Gemmological Association
You are invited to attend one of our open houses in the CGA classroom at 55 Queen Street East in the Lower Concourse level.
Come to an OPEN HOUSE in our downtown Toronto classroom!
Tuesday June 23, 2015 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Monday August 17, 2015 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Lower Concourse, 55 Queen Street East, Toronto, ON M5C 1R6
Learn about full-time day or part-time evening courses in Toronto
- Discover the internal world of gemstones through a microscope
- Try out the instruments used for gem identification
- Share your passion for gems with CGA faculty and CGA members
If you are unable to make it to this year’s Open House, please contact us to book an appointment to learn more about our courses.
The CGA’s courses provide essential professional training to the gem and jewellery trade. For the new-entrant, the trade veteran or the hobbyist, the more you know, the more you’ll appreciate this fascinating field. In addition to our professional gemmology programs, the CGA also offers general interest classes and advanced courses.
Fall 2015 Vocational Programs
Gemmology Accelerated Program – Daytime1
- September 1/15 to December 21/15
- (This session is filling up quickly, only 9 students will be accepted for each session.)
- Another accelerated session will be held February, 2016 to May, 2016
- 4 days/week (Mon-Thurs)
Jewellery Associate – Gemmology Specialist2
- Tuesday evenings 6:15pm to 9:15pm (one night a week)
- September 22/15 to May 17/16 (This is the first year of a two year evening program)
- The second year of the two year evening program requires two nights a week – Mondays & Thursdays – Sept 2016 to May 2017.
- 1Qualifies the successful student to write the CGA’s examinations for the Professional Level in Gemmology
- 2Qualifies the successful student to write the CGA’s examinations for the Preliminary Level in Gemmology
Study in Toronto, Vancouver or California!
You can attend the Canadian Gemmological Association’s Professional Gemmology courses in three locations:
- Toronto, Ontario – at the CGA Classroom at 55 Queen Street East, Lower Concourse, Room 105.
- Vancouver, British Columbia – at the Vancouver Community College
- Sacramento County, California – at the California Institute of Jewelry Training, 5805 Windmill Way, Carmichael, CA
General Interest Gemmology and Jewellery Classes
General interest courses are for persons who want to learn more about gems without undertaking professional training. Pre-registration is required for these classes. These classes are offered in Toronto only.
- Gem Appreciation – This is a 1-day, 5-hour general interest course designed to widen the knowledge of anyone interested in gems. It is particularly recommended for the consumer who wishes to make informed decisions when purchasing fine gemstones and gem-set jewellery, excluding diamonds.
- Practical Gem Identification – This 10-hour, 2 day course, stresses the “how to” of gem identification and is the follow-up to Gem Appreciation. Learning basic instrumentation will show you how a gemmologist can distinguish between natural, synthetic and imitation gems found in modern and antique jewellery. Gem testing instruments are provided, but students should have their own pocket instruments (loupe, tweezers). We sell gemmological instruments.
- Talking Diamonds – This 5-hour seminar cuts through the industry jargon and provides practical, easy-to-understand information about diamonds. It is intended for the first-time purchaser, or anyone interested in learning more about these fascinating gems.
- Pearl Stringing – This 3-hour workshop provides hands-on experience in stringing pearls and beads, thus allowing you to make your own beautiful jewellery. There is a small additional cost for materials (silk thread, clasp) payable to the course instructor.
- Individual lectures are also available on Tiaras, History of the Ring and a variety of other gemmology and jewellery topics.
Advanced Courses in Gemology
The CGA’s advanced courses are designed for trade professionals who have a professional gemmology diploma or are current gemmology students. Pre-registration is required for these courses.
Curved Striations Photo by J. McKercher
- Sophisticated Synthetics and Gemstone Enhancements– Bring your knowledge of the important gemstones up to date! Emeralds, sapphires, rubies and diamonds are valuable gems for which many simulants and synthetic counterparts exist, and which are frequently enhanced.The primary focus of these workshops is on the nature and occurrence of inclusions within the various “sophisticated” synthetics, and the detection of new methods of enhancement. Participants will have a chance to practice the various techniques and tips provided for distinguishing naturals from synthetics and for detecting enhancements using gemmological equipment.
- Coloured Gemstone Grading and Evaluation– This three-day workshop will benefit gem trade professionals, gemmology students and enthusiasts alike. Students will learn the skills to accurately grade and value coloured gemstones. Emphasis on hands-on practice with a variety of gems of different quality will provide students with the knowledge to become confident buyers and sellers in the rapidly growing coloured stone market.
Contact the administrative office at 647-466-2436 or info@canadiangemmological.com for details.
Learn Canadian Professional Diamond Grading July 6-10, 2015
Photo by J McKercher
This an intensive, hands-on course which will provide knowledge and skill in the grading of colourless, round brilliant cut diamonds. Please note: this course focuses on the diamond grading process, not the identification of diamond and/or its simulants. All necessary major equipment is provided, but students should bring their own pocket instruments (which are available at reasonable cost on-site). Required course textbook may be purchased separately. Class size is limited to a maximum of 8 students.
Prerequisites: a recognised gemmological diploma (e.g., FCGmA, FGA, FGAA, GG, etc.), OR employment in the jewellery industry (manufacturing, wholesale, or retail).
Contact the administrative office at 647-466-2436 or info@canadiangemmological.com for details.
Jewellery Appraisal Fundamentals JULY 13-17, 2015
Photo by J. McKercher
Appraisal course syllabus
Types of Appraisals
Evaluation Approaches
Valuation Levels
Receiving Procedures
Metal Testing
Receipt Procedures
Accurate Descriptions and costing
Worksheets and Documentation
Sources of Information
Colour and Cut (make) grading of Coloured stones
Briefly watches-
Unusual Stones
Vintage or Antique Jewellery
Hallmarking
Contact the administrative office at 647-466-2436 or info@canadiangemmological.com for details.
Professional Vocational Gemmologist Courses
Peridot Inclusion
For over 55 years, the CGA has offered professional gemmological training in Canada, preparing students to earn the internationally recognized Diploma in Gemmology, and Fellowship with the CGA (FCGmA).
This professional course can be taken two different ways:
Evening Classes over two years – once a week for the first year and twice a week during the second year.
Daytime Accelerated Program – a 16 week intensive course on Mondays to Thursdays from 10am to 4pm, starting in September or February.
The Canadian Gemmological Association is Canada’s professional organization for the practice of gemmology. The Canadian Gemmological Association website contains information about the organization, including information on courses, membership, meeting times, annual Gem Conferences and more. Contact the administrative office at 647-466-2436 or info@canadiangemmological.com for details.
CGA Gemmological Classroom
Canadian Gemmological Open Houses July 29 & August 26 2014
September is the time to start a new course? Why not consider taking a gemmology class this fall?
Canadian Gemmological Association
You are invited to attend one of our open houses in the CGA classroom at 55 Queen Street East in the Lower Concourse level.
Come to an OPEN HOUSE in our downtown Toronto classroom!
Tuesday July 29, 2014 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Tuesday August 26, 2014 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Lower Concourse, 55 Queen Street East, Toronto, ON M5C 1R6
Learn about full-time day or part-time evening courses in Toronto
- Discover the internal world of gemstones through a microscope
- Try out the instruments used for gem identification
- Share your passion for gems with CGA faculty and CGA members
If you are unable to make it to this year’s Open House, please contact us to book an appointment to learn more about our courses.
The CGA’s courses provide essential professional training to the gem and jewellery trade. For the new-entrant, the trade veteran or the hobbyist, the more you know, the more you’ll appreciate this fascinating field. In addition to our professional gemmology programs, the CGA also offers general interest classes and advanced courses.
Fall 2014 Vocational Programs
Gemmology Accelerated Program – Daytime1
- September 2/14 to December 18/14
- (This session is filling up quickly, only 9 students will be accepted for each session.)
- Another accelerated session will be held Feb 2nd, 2015 to May 21st, 2015
- 4 days/week (Mon-Thurs)
Jewellery Associate – Gemmology Specialist2
- Tuesday evenings 6pm to 9pm (one night a week)
- September 30/14 to May 12/15 (This is the first year of a two year evening program)
- The second year of the two year evening program requires two nights a week – Mondays & Thursdays – Sept 2015 to May 2016.
- 1Qualifies the successful student to write the CGA’s examinations for the professional Diploma in Gemmology
- 2Qualifies the successful student to write the CGA’s examinations for the preliminary Certificate in Gemmology
Study in Toronto, Vancouver or California!
You can attend the Canadian Gemmological Association’s Professional Gemmology courses in three locations:
- Toronto, Ontario – at the CGA Classroom at 55 Queen Street East, Lower Concourse, Room 105.
- Vancouver, British Columbia – at the Vancouver Community College
- Sacramento County, California – at the California Institute of Jewelry Training, 5805 Windmill Way, Carmichael, CA
General Interest Gemmology and Jewellery Classes
General interest courses are for persons who want to learn more about gems without undertaking professional training. Pre-registration is required for these classes. These classes are offered in Toronto only.
- Gem Appreciation – This is a 1-day, 5-hour general interest course designed to widen the knowledge of anyone interested in gems. It is particularly recommended for the consumer who wishes to make informed decisions when purchasing fine gemstones and gem-set jewellery, excluding diamonds.
- Practical Gem Identification – This 10-hour, 2 day course, stresses the “how to” of gem identification and is the follow-up to Gem Appreciation. Learning basic instrumentation will show you how a gemmologist can distinguish between natural, synthetic and imitation gems found in modern and antique jewellery. Gem testing instruments are provided, but students should have their own pocket instruments (loupe, tweezers). We sell gemmological instruments.
- Talking Diamonds – This 5-hour seminar cuts through the industry jargon and provides practical, easy-to-understand information about diamonds. It is intended for the first-time purchaser, or anyone interested in learning more about these fascinating gems.
- Pearl Stringing – This 3-hour workshop provides hands-on experience in stringing pearls and beads, thus allowing you to make your own beautiful jewellery. There is a small additional cost for materials (silk thread, clasp) payable to the course instructor.
- Individual lectures are also available on Tiaras, History of the Ring and a variety of other gemmology and jewellery topics.
Advanced Courses in Gemology
The CGA’s advanced courses are designed for trade professionals who have a professional gemmology diploma or are current gemmology students. Pre-registration is required for these courses.
Curved Striations Photo by J. McKercher
- Sophisticated Synthetics and Gemstone Enhancements– Bring your knowledge of the important gemstones up to date! Emeralds, sapphires, rubies and diamonds are valuable gems for which many simulants and synthetic counterparts exist, and which are frequently enhanced.The primary focus of these workshops is on the nature and occurrence of inclusions within the various “sophisticated” synthetics, and the detection of new methods of enhancement. Participants will have a chance to practice the various techniques and tips provided for distinguishing naturals from synthetics and for detecting enhancements using gemmological equipment.
- Coloured Gemstone Grading and Evaluation– This three-day workshop will benefit gem trade professionals, gemmology students and enthusiasts alike. Students will learn the skills to accurately grade and value coloured gemstones. Emphasis on hands-on practice with a variety of gems of different quality will provide students with the knowledge to become confident buyers and sellers in the rapidly growing coloured stone market.
Learn Canadian Professional Diamond Grading
Photo by J McKercher
This an intensive, hands-on course which will provide knowledge and skill in the grading of colourless, round brilliant cut diamonds. Please note: this course focuses on the diamond grading process, not the identification of diamond and/or its simulants. All necessary major equipment is provided, but students should bring their own pocket instruments (which are available at reasonable cost on-site). Required course textbook may be purchased separately. Class size is limited to a maximum of 8 students.
Prerequisites: a recognised gemmological diploma (e.g., FCGmA, FGA, FGAA, GG, etc.), OR employment in the jewellery industry (manufacturing, wholesale, or retail).
Jewellery Appraisal Fundamentals JULY 14-18, 2014
Photo by J. McKercher
Appraisal course syllabus
Types of Appraisals
Evaluation Approaches
Valuation Levels
Receiving Procedures
Metal Testing
Receipt Procedures
Accurate Descriptions and costing
Worksheets and Documentation
Sources of Information
Colour and Cut (make) grading of Coloured stones
Briefly watches-
Unusual Stones
Vintage or Antique Jewellery
Hallmarking
Contact the administrative office at 647-466-2436 or info@canadiangemmological.com for details.
Professional Vocational Gemmologist Courses
Peridot Inclusion
For over 55 years, the CGA has offered professional gemmological training in Canada, preparing students to earn the internationally recognized Diploma in Gemmology, and Fellowship with the CGA (FCGmA).
This professional course can be taken two different ways:
Evening Classes over two years – once a week for the first year and twice a week during the second year.
Daytime Accelerated Program – a 16 week intensive course on Mondays to Thursdays from 10am to 4pm, starting in September or February.
The Canadian Gemmological Association is Canada’s professional organization for the practice of gemmology. The Canadian Gemmological Association website contains information about the organization, including information on courses, membership, meeting times, annual Gem Conferences and more. Contact the administrative office at 647-466-2436 or info@canadiangemmological.com for details.
CGA Gemmological Classroom
Canadian Gemmological Open Houses June 25th, July 28th, & Aug. 26th 2013
What happens in September? We start more education! Why not consider taking a gemmology class this fall?
Canadian Gemmological Association
Learn About Gemstones 