How Do I Become a Gemologist?

There are several career paths one may take to become a gemologist, including formal education, certification through a professional organization, and apprenticeship in a working shop. This career focuses on handling and valuing precious stones. The best way to become a gemologist can depend on where someone wants to work and the nature of the job; a prestigious auction house might want someone with an advanced degree, for example, while an appraiser might feel a certificate is more appropriate.

One option is formal education. Trade schools and colleges offer certificate programs in gemology ranging from several months to two years to familiarize people with stones. Students can also pursue bachelor’s degrees in subjects like mineralogy and geology, or art history, and could also consider a master’s degree in the subject. Advanced degrees provide people with extensive training and the ability to focus on highly specialized subjects, like valuing gems from particular historical eras.

Certification is another route someone can take to become a gemologist. This involves completing educational requirements set by a certifying organization and taking an examination to demonstrate competence and familiarity with the topic. Numerous organizations offer competing certifications and it is advisable to research them to determine which has the best reputation. People can try looking up the certifications of working gemologists with established, high-profile companies to see where they earned their certifications.

Another option is to become an apprentice, with or without some formal education. Someone can become a gemologist by working directly in the industry under supervision from someone with experience. Over time, apprentices handle increasingly complex jobs and have an opportunity to independently appraise and perform other tasks. Once they are fully trained, their supervisors can hire them as full employees or provide references to allow them to move to other jobs. An apprenticeship with a reputable firm can be a very useful qualification.

Continuing education can be important after a person has become a gemologist. This can include keeping up with industry trends, taking note of new cuts and gem handling methods, and following reports of fraud in the industry. Gemologists need to make sure they are aware of current values and want to be able to assure their clients of the best possible services. Like others working with fine art, jewelry, and related products, gemologists may participate in informal networks to identify stolen goods or gems of dubious origin so they can be restored to their rightful owners.