Kayla Williams

Coop High School

Grade 11

Gemology
Occupation Description:
Gemology is a geoscience, dealing with the study of gemstones. In college, a gemologist
learns to identify a stone based on color, and other factors of appearance. S/he also learns how to
price the gems, and market the merchandise. Gemologists can specialize in certain gems, such as
diamonds or sapphire, or they can work with a variety of gems.
Gemology is a career on the rise, since it has become more and more popular to give
rings as gifts or momentums, such as engagement rings or class rings. Gemology can also be a
financially rewarding career. Gemologists can earn anywhere from $19,140 to $35,150 annually
(Kerry). Gemology can be a fulfilling and rewarding career. A gemologist never goes a day
without seeing beautiful things.

Required Education:
In order to become a gemologist, one must attend a school offering a major in gemology.
These are sometimes hard to find, so it would be best to attend a school that specializes in
gemology, where, after taking the proper courses, one would earn a gemology license.

Geographical Requirements:
There are no specific geographical requirements for a career in gemology. However, a
gemologists business all depends on supply and demand. This being said, business will not do
well if the gemologist does not have access to the proper gems. Also, it will be difficult to make
money if there is low demand for the gems.

Interest:
I would be a good candidate for this career because I have always had an interest in gems
and birthstones. Also, I would like to revolutionize the world of diamonds by figuring out a way
to stop the circulation of Blood Diamonds or the diamonds found by the deaths of innocent
people. Also, my success in this business would secure my financial future, and help pay any
college loans taken out for my education in the field.

Related Occupations:
Some careers similar to gemology include geologists, salespersons, and jewelers.
Geologists: They study rocks, and sometimes have a career which exposes them to the outdoors
more.
Salespersons: They sell all types of things, including cars, furniture, and clothing. They are
similar to gemologists in that they need marketing skills and a foundation in sales.
Jewelers: They design and repair jewelry and other precious items. This career is very similar to
gemology in its affiliation with gemstones, however, focuses on the specific work with the
preservation of diamonds as opposed to the identification of them as well.

References:

M., Kerry. "Gemologist." 20 Dec. 2007

http://www.mountalverniahs.org/mahs/Departments/Science/Gr11ChemWeb04/gem.htm.

"Gemologist." OCCinfo. Alberta Learning Information Services. 20 Dec. 2007

<http://www.alis.gov.ab.ca/occinfo/Content/RequestAction.asp?aspAction=GetHTMLPr
ofile&format=html&occPro_ID=71002505>.
"C.I.G. Introductory Program in Gemology." Canadian Institute of Gemology. 20 Dec.
2007 <http://www.cigem.ca/211.html>.

Required Coursework:
These courses, as well as some in advanced gemology, will lead to a license and
certification in gemology.
110 GEMSTONES (Gemmology I)
120 GEMMOLOGY II (Theory Course)
130 DIAMONDS
140 JEWELLERY, HISTORY AND DESIGN
150 GEM IDENTIFICATION I
160 PEARLS, JADE AND OPAL