Course Details
Making a career in gemology is a highly profitable and rewarding option. To become a successful gemologist, one should acquire the right knowledge and training, which can be achieved through courses of different durations. Gemology is offered at degree, diploma, and certificate levels. Aspiring students who have passed their 10+2 examination, or any equivalent recognized examination, in any stream are eligible for admission into various gemology courses. 3-year Bachelor’s program in Fine Arts (BFA) and Diploma in accessory and jewelry design are offered at undergraduate level. Candidates who have completed graduation can pursue gemology courses at post graduation level. Generally, diploma, post graduate diploma, and certificate courses are available to such candidates, ranging from 6 days to 3 months to 1 year. One can choose from different specializations offered - jewelry designing, gem grinding, gem polishing, gem assortment, gem engraving, jewelry setter, and gem research.
Career Prospects
An individual who possesses an artistic sense, sagacity of design, and admiration of quality can hope for immense growth and success in gemology. In fact, a large number of people can be seen opting for this profession and seeking employment in one of the renowned jewelry companies and business houses. Designing, manufacturing, management, research, academic training, and professional value analysis are some major fields to look for jobs as a gemologist. Besides, several other alternatives are available to gemologists, such as gemstone appraiser, sales associate at a jewelry store, jewelry business owner, diamond or colored stone grader, jewelry historian, and auction house cataloguer. One can also enter the mining or gem exporting industry. Ample number of opportunities can be explored in gem and precious metal evaluating and testing laboratories and gem certifying bodies, units producing gemological tools and instruments, and industrial units specializing in gem cutting and polishing and treatment of rough gems. Apart from dedication, passion, and creative mind, one should possess adequate knowledge and discerning eye to spot even the minute changes in the constitution of different gems and stones. However, one should be prepared to spend long hours at gemological laboratories and units in case the work involves cutting and polishing or treatment of gems. Excellent communication skills, personal integrity, and know-how of technological advancements will be highly advantageous and useful in generating reputation.
Top Colleges Offering UG/PG/Other Courses
India is home to several institutes that offer different courses in gemology. Some of the most celebrated ones include: Indian Gemological Institute (IGI), New Delhi; Gemological Institute of India (GII), Mumbai; National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), New Delhi; Indian Institute of Gemology, New Delhi; Arch Gemology & Jewelry Institute, Jaipur; Indian Diamond Institute, Surat; Gemstones Artisans Training School, Jaipur; Jewelry Design & Technology Institute (JDTI), Noida; Indian Institute of Gems & Jewelry (IIGJ), Mumbai; National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad; Gem and Jewelry Export Promotion Council, Jaipur; St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai; Small Industries Service Institute, Chennai; Dr. Dharmambal Govt. Polytechnic College for Women, Chennai; and Jasani Department of Jewelry Design and Manufacture, SNDT Women’s University, Mumbai.
Remuneration
The pay scale generally depends upon the qualification and skills of the candidate and the status of the employer. On completing a basic course in gemology, a fresher can be hired at a salary ranging from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 18,000 per month. A higher qualification can easily fetch an attractive package between Rs. 25,000 and Rs. 30,000 per month. This amount increases with experience and time. On attaining sufficient experience, one can establish his own independent unit which can produce crores of rupees as profit, on annual basis, depending upon the scale of the business.
