The Gem-A Foundation course launches your gem education. It will introduce you to a wide variety of gem materials, from amber to zircon, with a careful balance of theory and hands-on practical work. You will learn about the characteristics of gems, how they are employed in jewellery, how you may identify them, how they are assessed and how fakes are identified.The Gem-A Foundation Certificate in Gemmology is accredited at level 3 by the UK Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA). This is equivalent to the UK Advanced Level Certificate (‘A’-Level).

There are various ways you can study, from full time and evening courses to distance learning, so you can pace yourself to best suit your other commitments. The course can be completed in as little as four months with daytime study, or can take 10-12 months when you learn at your own pace as an Open Distance Learning (ODL) student. The Foundation Certificate is awarded on the basis of course work and a final exam. The course fees include exam fees, comprehensive course notes and gem reference guide, our gem testing kit with the indispensable equipment for hands-on examination, and a set of gem materials chosen to illustrate important features of gemstones. A full range of equipment, books and sample stones is also available from our shop or online.

Once you have passed the Foundation Certificate exam, we urge you to continue your studies and work towards our Diploma in Gemmology. If you are not yet ready to pursue this full course, our Practical Gemmology Certificate, which is identical to the practical component of our Diploma in Gemmology, is a great option to consider. You can take the theory components later to complete the Gemmology Diploma course.

To download a copy of the course syllabus, indicating the content of the course:

Click here for those studying the Traditional Foundation / Traditional Diploma course

Click here for those studying the 2008/09 Foundation / 2008/2009 Diploma course  

If further study is not on your immediate agenda, then do become a Member of Gem-A. This will keep you in touch with the constantly changing world of gemmology and bring you news about events, conferences and gem shows around the world. When you do decide to continue your studies, you will have a head start.

Download a 2010-2011 Prospectus                                 Download a 2010 Application Form

Download an Instalment Scheme Agreement Form