General description
The Basic Gemmology module is essential for any aspiring gemmologist. It provides the theoretical basis for the physical, optical and chemical principles behind gems.

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN
The topics covered are:
– Introduction to gemmology: vocabulary, definitions
– Chemical properties of gems
– Physical and optical properties of gems
– Carat: size, weight and density
– Inclusions, loupe, and microscope
– Light (polarization, refraction and reflection, pleochroism)
– Crystallography: identification and market of rough
– Causes of colour
– Optical effects
– Theory and practice of instruments (polariscope, refractometer, dichroscope, spectroscope and filters)
– Other physical properties: luminescence, conductivity and magnetism

who should take this course ?
No prerequisites are required.

HOW DOES IT WORK?
– Each student follows the course at his/her own pace.
– You have access to the digital version of the course for an unlimited period of time, and can receive the printed version if you wish (two options are offered at the time of registration: with or without printed material).
– Each student benefits from a two-hour individual tutorial given by one of the professors, which can be done in the institute’s premises or via a web platform, in one or two sessions.
– The learning of theory is accompanied by practice. It is necessary to have gems and instruments to train and optimize your studies. For those who need it, we offer a kit of 20 gems designed by the institute as well as a basic kit of gemmological instruments.
– Two online MCQ exams allow you to validate this module.

VALIDATION AND FOLLOW-UP
You can continue your learning with the course Coloured Gemstones.
Indeed, Basic Gemmology is part of the training for the WGF Career Gemmologist diploma.

Registration and payment
The payment is valid for registration. Payment can be made on this page, by debit or credit card by calling the school at (514) 844-0024, by Interac at info@igem.ca
Prices are given before tax. Federal tax (GST) of 5% and provincial tax (QST) of 9.975% must be added.
The price of the module depends on the formula chosen :
– Distance learning course without printed material: $305
– Distance learning course with printed material: $390
Please be sure to select your choice when you register.