Short course
GEM-A Diploma in Gemmology
Through the Gemmology Diploma, you will gain a deeper understanding of gems, building on the practical and theoretical knowledge learned in your Foundation studies. Passing Foundation in Gemmology examinations are a pre-requisite for this course.
Overview
You will look at a wider range of gems, synthetics and treatments, and will build upon the practical and theoretical knowledge learned during your Gemmology Foundation course, leading to a more in-depth understanding of gemmology and the principles of gem testing and enhanced gem identification skills.
This course is taught by two Visiting Lecturers, Davina Dryland FGA and Nicole Flavel Avery FGA, DGA. Davina is an experienced educator, geologist, gemmologist, gem and mineral dealer. Nicole an industry expert in jewellery auctions, jewellery designer/maker and gem testing laboratories.
Learning Outcomes
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An in-depth look at treatments and synthetic materials, including their production, use, identification and the resulting implications for the gem trade, taking into account the ethical, environmental, and technological implications and applications of gemmology. You will learn how to handle rough, cut, and set gem materials, such as diamond, sapphire, ruby, and emerald, as well as organics and a range of treated and imitation gem materials
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How to interpret results from advanced gem-testing equipment and apply scientific principles and concepts to solve gemmological problems, and to assess the validity, reliability and credibility of scientific information related to the study of gems
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How to select, organise and present relevant gemmological information using professional and technical vocabulary. Additionally, how to demonstrate a logical approach to gem testing, and the capability to acknowledge limitations and uses of certain tests
Who would benefit?
Foundation in Gemmology graduates can apply for this course. It is an excellent course for anyone working in the gemmology industry and for gem enthusiasts alike. Graduates of the Gemmology Diploma can apply for Fellowship of Gem-A, allowing them to use the letters FGA after their name. FGA Membership status conveys a student’s knowledge, integrity, membership of a professional body and commitment to professional development and is highly valued within the gem industry. The course is taught in English and IELTS level 6 is required for students whose English is their second language.
Course in Depth
The course begins on 13th October 2026, and will occur on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, from 5:30 to 8pm.
What is the course duration?
There will be a total of 62 taught sessions, with the last session taking place on Thursday 17th June. The course concludes with a theory and practical examination. Date of theory exam is Wednesday 22nd June 2026, practical exam date tbc.
Holiday dates:
- 3 weeks for Christmas w/c 21 December
- 2 weeks for Easter w/c 29 March
- No class on Thursday 25 March - this is replaced with a full day mock examination on Wednesday 24 March
What is included?
Fees include tuition and use of extensive collection of gemstones at Birmingham City University and Gem-A fees which cover the cost of your notes, equipment, gemstone samples, Moodle access and exam fees.
Offerings
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Gem-A Diploma in Gemmology (English Version)
Through the Gemmology Diploma, you will gain a deeper understanding of gems, building on the practical and theoretical knowledge learned in your Foundation studies. Passing Foundation in Gemmology examinations are a pre-requisite for this course. You will look at a wider range of gems, synthetics and treatments, and will build upon the practical and theoretical knowledge learned during your Gemmology Foundation course, leading to a more in-depth understanding of gemmology and the principles of gem testing and enhanced gem identification skills.
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Gem-A Diploma in Gemmology (Simplified Chinese)
Through the Gemmology Diploma, you will gain a deeper understanding of gems, building on the practical and theoretical knowledge learned in your Foundation studies. Passing Foundation in Gemmology examinations are a pre-requisite for this course.
You will look at a wider range of gems, synthetics and treatments, and will build upon the practical and theoretical knowledge learned during your Gemmology Foundation course, leading to a more in-depth understanding of gemmology and the principles of gem testing and enhanced gem identification skills.
Simplified Chinese version comes with an additional set of notes and exam language.
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Gem-A Diploma in Gemmology (Traditional Chinese)
Through the Gemmology Diploma, you will gain a deeper understanding of gems, building on the practical and theoretical knowledge learned in your Foundation studies. Passing Foundation in Gemmology examinations are a pre-requisite for this course.
You will look at a wider range of gems, synthetics and treatments, and will build upon the practical and theoretical knowledge learned during your Gemmology Foundation course, leading to a more in-depth understanding of gemmology and the principles of gem testing and enhanced gem identification skills.
Traditional Chinese version comes with an additional set of notes and exam language.
Schedule & Location
All sessions are onsite. Theory lectures/discussions, revision and exam practice. Practical sessions include how to use the equipment and opportunities to test a wide range of diploma syllabus gemstones. Theory sessions are mainly on Tuesdays and Practicals on Thursdays.
Weekly content to be updated and shared with participants during start of course.
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1 |
13 & 15-Oct |
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2 |
20 & 22-Oct |
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3 |
27 & 29-Oct |
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4 |
3 & 5-Nov |
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5 |
10 & 12-Nov |
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6 |
17 & 19-Nov |
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7 |
24 & 26-Nov |
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8 |
1 & 3-Dec |
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9 |
8 & 10-Dec |
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10 |
15 & 17-Dec |
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H |
20 & 22-Dec |
Holiday |
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H |
27 & 29-Dec |
Holiday |
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H |
3 & 5-Jan |
Holiday |
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11 |
12 & 14-Jan |
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12 |
19 & 21-Jan |
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13 |
26 & 28-Jan |
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14 |
2 & 4-Feb |
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15 |
9 & 11-Feb |
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16 |
16 & 18-Feb |
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17 |
23 & 25-Feb |
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18 |
2 & 4-Mar |
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19 |
9 & 11-Mar |
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20 |
16 & 18-Mar |
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21 |
24-Mar |
MOCKEXAM |
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H |
30-Mar |
Holiday |
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H |
6-Apr |
Holiday |
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22 |
13 & 15-Apr |
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23 |
20 & 22-Apr |
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24 |
27 & 29-Apr |
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25 |
4 & 6-May |
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26 |
11 & 13-May |
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27 |
18 & 20-May |
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28 |
25 & 27-May |
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29 |
1 & 3-Jun |
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30 |
8 & 10-Jun |
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E |
18-Jun |
Theory Exam |
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E |
TBC-Jun |
Practical Exam |
Location
Assay Office (Icknield Street Entrance)
1 Moreton Street
Birmingham
B1 3AX
Fees and enrolment
If you're interested in finding out more about this course or would like more information before you enrol, please register your interest and we'll be in touch with more information.
Level: Short course