Gemologist – though it is considered as one of the oldest profession of the human society in the real sense, it was always adopted only by those whose forefathers were into this profession from centuries even since the times of kings and emperors and maybe before that. There was no formal education for this profession to enter in. It was only acquired knowledge by the descendants of those who were already in this profession involving the most precious commodities on the earth. At that time even the buyers were only high profile people and there was not much scope in this profession for the new entrants.
But since then a lot of water has flown under the bridge, the situation has changed a lot. Gems are still considered as the most precious thing but its knowledge and craze and above all capacity to buy it have increased a lot among the masses and thus the demand of Gems and the professionals of this field have increased a lot in last 50 years or so. Moreover, with the full commercialization of this business of precious stones, its knowledge has also increased among the masses.
Thereby making the younger ones to think of joining the courses and adopting this business has increased a lot. They are foreseeing their future in this profession and that too quite lucrative one for the successful and talented ones.
It is, therefore, quite necessary that people associated with the trade, receive training and carry out the operations scientifically and professionally so as to achieve greater success.
To do his work successfully a Gemologist requires special knowledge and training which can be acquired by doing the required courses of varying duration. To become a Gemologist one has to follow the below-given path.
Gemologist Eligibility
Educational Qualification
Pass in Senior Secondary Examination (10+2) or equivalent recognized examination in any stream
Age Limits
There is no restriction with regard to the age of the candidate however some good institution prefers younger people below the age of 18 yrs as their student.
Gemologist Required Skills
- Gemologists must have sophisticated analytical skills to recognize the types of gems through close analysis; also need strong evaluation skills to separate real from manufactured stones.
- They should also have the skills to talk with customers and other Gemologists about stones.
- They also possess a mastery of written skills to complete gem-certification forms and answer customer questions about the stone evaluation.
- They should be able to identify whether a gemstone is synthetic, natural, fracture-filled, treated or colour-enhanced.
- They should also be able to the management of material resources like obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
How to become a Gemologist?
To become a Gemologist one has to follow the given steps:
Step 1
Candidates who have qualified 10+2 or equivalent examination from a recognized educational institution have to apply for the Gemology/Jewellery Design degree/ diploma/ certificate courses such as:
- Gemological Institute of India, Mumbai provide 4 months Diploma in Gemology.
- Indian Institute of Gemology (IIG New Delhi) is offering various courses of varying duration in Gemology including 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 International Gemological Institute conduct advanced fellowship programmes of 1-year duration for science and engineering graduates.
- National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT, Delhi) offers a 3-year B.Des.(Accessory Design) course that includes Jewellery Design.
Step 2
After undergoing one or more of these undergraduate courses one can opt to join some big Jewellery houses or can go for the advanced courses like Post Graduate Diploma in Diamond Technology for further enhancing his skills.
Step 3
After acquiring full knowledge of the trade one can opt for a job or can start his own business in association with some jewellery. A bit of hard work and dedication can make a learned Gemologist a perfect in the profession. Besides the formal knowledge and experience of the technical field, these professional do require an insight into customs and tradition as well as the latest trends as these do influence art forms and design. Effective communication skills facilitate an understanding with the clients as well as the craftspersons.
Gemologist Job Description
The responsibility of a Gemologist is to study the quality, characteristics and value of gemstones and the rest of the work are done by the Jewellers to produce a piece of Jeweller. A Gemologist identifies the gems and advises the jeweller about the compatibility of gems to particular metals. While making jewellery, identification is one of the most important elements of trade. And it makes the Gemologist work all the more important and of great responsibility towards its customers. Some very precious stones like Rubies and Garnets sometimes look alike, but their values are considerably different, only a Gemologist can easily identify the difference and know its physical characteristic and value.
Gemologist Career Prospects
Employment opportunities for Gemologists are increasing nowadays as the sale of Jewellery is swelling among the masses. Thus a Gemologist can begin by working with Jewellery houses or work as a freelancer. There are lots of job offers in the private sector export houses as well. 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 created simultaneously. There are also opportunities for setting up retail and trading units. Once they make a name, it is a very lucrative profession.
Gemologist Salary
To start with, one can expect to get nearly Rs.20,000 to Rs.25,000 in a job with a good organization. For those working independently, there is no upper limit of earning, it may be from a few thousands a month and can be lakhs, to say the least. It all depends upon the capabilities and marketing skills of the Gemologist along with his expertise and superiority of work.
