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General Interest Courses


MembershipPlease note that pre-registration is required for all courses. All courses take place at 1767 Avenue Rd, Toronto, Ontario.


Available Courses:

Code Course
GI/GA Gem Appreciation
PGI Practical Gem Identification
GI/DIA Talking Diamonds
GI/PS Pearl Stringing


Gem Appreciation:


This is a 1-day, 5-hour general interest course designed to widen the knowledge of anyone interested in gems. It is particularly recommended for the consumer who wishes to make informed decisions when purchasing fine gemstones and gem-set jewellery, excluding diamonds.


Syllabus:

  • the nature of gemstones
  • the basics of gem identification
  • understanding differences in quality
  • pre-purchase considerations
  • caring for gems and jewellery


Sessions:

  • Time: 9:30 am - 3:00 pm
  • Course Code: GI/GA
  • Fee: $125


Upcoming sessions:

  • Saturday October 16, 2010


Practical Gem Identification:


This 10-hour, 2 day course, stresses the "how to" of gem identification. Learning basic instrumentation will show you how a gemmologist can distinguish between natural, synthetic and imitation gems found in modern and antique jewellery. Gem testing instruments are provided, but students should have their own pocket instruments (loupe, tweezers).


Prerequisites:

  1. Gem Appreciation Course, OR
  2. extensive personal study of gems.


Syllabus:

  • Specimen preparation
  • Polariscope
  • Visual inspection
  • Refractometer
  • 10x loupe
  • Spectroscope
  • Care of instruments
  • Microscopes


Sessions:

  • Time: 9:30 am - 3:00 pm
  • Course Code: PGI
  • Fee: $250


Next Session:

  • Saturday November 27 and Sunday November 28, 2010 


Talking Diamonds:


This 5-hour seminar cuts through the industry jargon and provides practical, easy-to-understand information about diamonds. It is intended for the first-time purchaser, or anyone interested in learning more about these fascinating gems.


Sessions:

  • Time: 9:30 am - 3 pm
  • Course Code: GI/DIA
  • Fee: $125


Upcoming sessions:

  • Saturday January 15, 2011

Pearl Stringing:


This 3-hour workshop provides hands-on experience in stringing pearls and beads, thus allowing you to make your own beautiful jewellery. There is a small additional cost for materials (silk thread, clasp) payable to the course instructor.


Sessions:

  • Time: 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
  • Course Code: GI/PS
  • Fee: $45 + $30 for materials


Upcoming session(s):

  • TBD