GEMOLOGY

Check out details and requirement for Career In Gemology

INTRODUCTION
Gemology is the scientific study of gemstones. It is a branch of mineralogy that is concerned with the study of gem materials, including identification and testing methods, cutting and polishing manufactured gems, precious metals and alloys, their sources and origins and grading and appraising. Gemologists study the quality, characteristics and value of gem stones, Jewelers typically do the handiwork required to produce a piece of Jewellery. Gemologists identifies the gems and advises the jeweller about the compatibility of gems to particular metals. In Jewellery, identification is one of the key elements of business.
Gemologists can easily identify the difference and know each gem's physical characteristic and value. The first step in learning about gems is its categorization. The next step is to learn the terminology of gemstones and then their physical and optical properties, and how those properties are used to identify gems. After getting the background one can proceed into gem identification. Studies relating to this field are gem cutting, sorting, grading, valuation and identification of gemstones, fashion, computer pattern designing, jewellery making, consultancy regarding stones, selling etc.

EDUCATIONAL TRAITS
The course offer Bachelors/ Masters degree of Fine Arts (BFA/MFA) in Jewellery design. The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT, Delhi) offers a 3-year intensive diploma programme in accessory design that includes Jewellery Designing. Indian Institute of Gemology (IlG New Delhi) is offering various courses of Gemology. There is a three-and-a-half month course in gemology (resident programme) as well as a one- year home study programme.
The Indian diamond institute and the Indian Gemological Institute conduct advanced fellowship programmes of 1 year duration for science and engineering graduates. Some of the other courses are Post Graduate Diploma in Diamond Technology, Diploma in Diamond Processing, Diploma in Diamond Trade management, Certificate course in International system of Diamond Grading, Certificate course in Grading, Cutting, Polishing, Bruiting etc, Certificate course in Planning& Marketing, Certificate course in Hard Shape Grooving, Diploma in Gemology, Certificate course in Coloured Gemstone Cutting & Polishing, Courses in Jewellery Design & Machine Cast Jewellery. For P.G course eligibility is Graduation.

JOB PROSPECTS
In India the Gems & Jewellery scenario is undergoing a positive change with diamonds and stones like Tanzanite, Tourmalines, Peridots dominating the consumer preference. As a result job opportunities are on a rise. At the same time traditionally preferred Gems like Rubies, Sapphires and Emeralds have maintained a consistent position. From trade point of view Gems & Jewellery has been one of the biggest foreign exchange earner for India. It is therefore, highly necessary that people associated with the trade, receive training and carry out the operations scientifically and professionally so as to achieve greater success. Moreover the ascend in the line of affluent and fashion-conscious gentry makes this career option a more viable one. A gemologist/ jewellery designer can begin by working with jewellery houses or work as a freelancer or can work with an export house. However, if one is talented and designs one's own line of products, the chances of carving an individual niche are much higher provided they could satisfy market needs and continue to be creative at the same time.

CAREER OPTIONS
A myriad of avenues are open for the gemologists - gem grinders, gem polishers, gem assorters, engravers,jewellery setters, researchers and scientists. Correlated occupations could be of gem-cutters, hand engravers and watchmakers and repairers. There are also opportunities for setting up retail and trading units. Gemologists can be engaged in making small gem sculptures, giving shapes to the Gemstones, exporting jewelry etc.

PERSONAL TRAITS
Attention to detail, precision, the ability to concentrate. Ability to work independently. Excellent hand -eye co-ordination. ./ Artistic and creative skills, aesthetic sense and colour sensitivity. Attentive to the traditional and the latest trends Effective communication skills facilitate an understanding with the clients as well as the crafts.

REMUNERATION
One can draw a lucrative amount once his designs and ideas are appreciated. However, this may have you marketing yourself for a while. The figures in the beginning may range from Rs. 8.000 to RS.l0, 000. persons