🎓 Junior Gemologist: Practical Identification & Trade Knowledge (this course is currently in production)
This is the advanced track for serious students, focusing on mastering professional gemological tools and classification systems used in the trade.
The Junior Gemologist course transitions students from theoretical knowledge (Explorer level) to practical, systematic gem identification. This advanced level focuses on mastering the specialized tools of the trade—including the Refractometer, Polariscope, and Microscope—and applying these instruments to real-world identification challenges.
You will delve into the complex classifications of major gem families like Corundum, Beryl, and Garnet, and learn the critical distinctions between natural, synthetic, and treated stones, which are essential for ethical gemology. This course provides the comprehensive skills needed for anyone serious about pursuing gemology.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of the Gemology Explorer course.
What You Will Master
Upon completion of the Junior Gemologist course, you will be able to:
- Operate a Polariscope to accurately determine a gem’s optical character (SR, DR, AGG) and understand Anomalous Double Refraction.
- Measure the Refractive Index (RI) of a gemstone using a refractometer to narrow down identification possibilities.
- Utilize the gemological microscope to analyze complex inclusions and discern specific growth patterns indicative of natural versus synthetic origin.
- Systematically classify and identify the common species within major gem families (e.g., Ruby vs. Sapphire, Emerald vs. Aquamarine).
- Explain the techniques and rationale behind advanced gemstone treatments (e.g., heating, fracture filling) and their impact on value.
- Differentiate between natural, synthetic (lab-grown), and imitation (simulant) gems using a combination of tools and observations.
- Discuss the 4Cs of Diamond Grading and understand the basics of diamond type classification.
Junior Gemologist Tools Available with Your Registration
To fully engage with this course, students can obtain this optional specialized tool and gemstone set available only for students registered in the Junior Gemologist Program:
- Refractometer: A basic unit capable of measuring RI.
- Polariscope: For systematic testing of a gem’s reaction to polarized light.
- Professional Jewelers Loupe: A stereo microscope (20x and 40x magnification) with darkfield illumination capability is highly recommended.
- Gemstone Study Set: An advanced 10 gemstone study set for your study, reference, and to keep. These will be natural and lab created gemstones.
The Gemologist Track: 10 Advanced Lessons
Part I: Advanced Tools and Techniques
| Lesson | Focus Area | Key Topics Covered |
| Lesson 1 | The Polariscope | Detailed understanding of the polarizer and analyzer. Practical testing for single, double, and aggregate refraction. |
| Lesson 2 | Using the Refractometer | The principle of Total Internal Reflection. Practical use to determine the Refractive Index (RI) and Birefringence. |
| Lesson 3 | The Dichroscope & Filters | In-depth exploration of pleochroism using the Dichroscope. Introduction to color filters (e.g., Chelsea Filter). |
| Lesson 4 | Mastering the Jewelers Loupe | Advanced techniques using the jewelers loupe for 10x magnification inspections of gemstone inclusions. |
| Lesson 5 | Weighing and Measuring | Precise use of the electronic carat balance. Introduction to the leveridge gauge for estimating weight based on dimensions. |
Part II: Gem Families, Treatments, and Trade
| Lesson | Focus Area | Key Topics Covered |
| Lesson 6 | The Corundum Family | Detailed study of Ruby and Sapphire. Identifying natural vs. synthetic corundum using growth patterns (curved striae). |
| Lesson 7 | The Beryl and Garnet Families | Exploring the Beryl family (Emerald, Aquamarine, Morganite). Comparing the different Garnet species using composition and RI ranges. |
| Lesson 8 | The Diamond Group | The 4Cs in detail. Understanding type classification and an introduction to HPHT and CVD synthetics. |
| Lesson 9 | Gemstone Treatments | A focused look at advanced treatments: Heating, Fracture Filling, Irradiation. Understanding disclosure and ethical issues. |
| Lesson 10 | Synthetics, Simulants, & Organics | Comprehensive review of Synthetics (identical chemistry), Simulants (imitations), and Organics (Pearl, Coral, Amber). |
