Gemology or Gemmology is the Science of Natural and artificial Gems and Gemstones. It is considered a Geoscience and a branch of Mineralogy. Gemstones are basically categorized based on of their crystal structure, specific gravity, refractive index, and other optical properties. Gemologists are academically trained Professionals who are qualified to identify and evaluate Gems. Gemologists conduct Microscopic study of the internal structure of a Gem to determine whether a Gem is Synthetic or Natural by revealing natural fluid inclusions. The Spectroscopic analysis of cut Gemstones also allow a Gemologist to understand the Atomic Structure and identify its origin as it is a major factor in valuing a Gemstone. When the Gemstones are in a rough state, the Gemologists study the external structure; the host rock and mineral association; and natural and polished colour.
Some of its specialized fields are -
Content
The study of this field includes all or few of these –
Objectives
Basic Requirement
For admission into a Gemology course, one needs to have completed 10+2 or Graduation in any stream.
Some of the Major Institutes providing Gemology Courses
Personal Attributes
Aspiring Gemologists need to have a sense of design and appreciation of quality. Excellent power of observation, Good hand-eye coordination, attention to details and ability to concentrate tremendously are some of the other qualities. Other vital Attributes are Excellent power of observation, Good hand-eye coordination, attention to details and ability to concentrate tremendously.
Job Perspectives
According to estimates, there is a huge volume of Gemology Processing done in India. Jaipur, Rajasthan, is among the World's Largest Gem Cutting Centers. Other emerging centres include Delhi, Mumbai, Surat and Ahmedabad. Most of the Jewellery Export Houses and other Centers are located in these cities. These offer good positions to those with training in the latest trends and developments in this field. Indian Gem Cutters and Craftsmen are valued all over the world. It is for these reasons that Gemology has emerged as a very lucrative and satisfying career. Gems and other precious stones are invaluable articles of personal glory and are considered symbols of wealth. The entry of Branded Gems and Jewellery along with increased interest in newer designs and westernised styles, job opportunities have increased manifolds. Employment is not at all problem for a skilled workers.
Remuneration
The salaries differ depending on the type of the job one has at hand. Professionals trained in the field of Gemology can start their career with a salary of Rs.6000-Rs.10000. Creative jobs generally fetch you starting salary of Rs. 15,000 per month.
Some Job Types
Some Employment Areas