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University of South Florida USF Continuing Education
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USF Continuing Education - Gemology
Gemology
Current Schedule

Gemology

Our gemology courses are designed to improve the knowledge and expertise of people in the industry, enhance sales and marketing skills, teach basic identification techniques, and prepare employees for more responsible positions. Courses are also suitable for those who are involved with gems and jewelry as an avocation or hobby. Courses may be taken individually or as part of the Gemology Certificate program. We also offer the Master Valuer program, which trains you to become a gem and jewelry appraiser.

Gemology Certificate

USF CertificateThis program improves the knowledge and expertise of people in the retail jewelry, pawn and appraisal industries and teaches basic identification techniques.

To earn the Gemology Certificate, three core courses and one elective course must be completed successfully within a two-year period. You must have an 80% attendance in all of the required courses to complete the program satisfactorily. When you complete the program requirements, you may request the Gemology certificate. Non-certificate individuals may enroll in individual courses.

Core Courses

  • Colored Gemstones
  • Diamond Identification and Grading
  • Gemology Introduction

Electives

  • Gemology Intermediate
  • Jewelry History

Non-Certificate Courses

  • Jewelry Marketing
  • Marketing and Managing a Jewelry Business

 

Master Valuer Program: Appraising Gems and Jewelry

Become a gem and jewelry appraiser or improve and enhance your appraisal skills through a comprehensive program of valuation studies. This program provides a solid foundation in the principles and methods of appraising gems and jewelry. The program was developed by Anna Miller, an international expert in appraisal science, and is taught by Eva Ananiewicz, a Graduate Gemologist and Master Valuer. Participants who successfully complete the program and pass the final examination will receive a certificate from USF and a Master Valuer Diploma from the California Institute of Jewelry Training.

This 16-session program offers 48 hours of classroom training, labs, hands-on exercises, and workshops, with information you can use immediately in an appraisal practice.

Topics include:

  • Basic Jewelry Appraising
  • Principles of Value: Terminology and Definitions
  • The Nature of Value: Purpose and Function
  • Understanding Markets
  • Methods of Estimating Value (Market Research, Pricing Guides and Internet Lab on Research)
  • Procedures for Taking in Jewelry (Worksheet Identifications and Descriptions and Appraisal Reports)
  • Valuing Diamonds and Colored Gemstones
  • Pricing Guide to Specific Gemstones
  • Identifying and Valuing Treated and Enhanced Gemstones
  • Hallmarks, Trademarks, Antique Jewelry History and Nomenclature
  • Circa Dating Jewelry
  • Colored Gemstones in Antique Jewelry and Valuing Old Cut Diamonds
  • Settings and Findings Nomenclature
  • Resources: More Antique and Estate Items
  • Evaluation Guides, Disclaimers and Florida Law

Prerequisites: Participants should have a background in gemology. Background knowledge/experience may include: courses in USF's Gemology Certificate Program; completion or enrollment in GIA, CGA, FGA or equivalent programs; courses in geology and mineralogy; work experience in the jewelry industry; or instructor approval. This is a graded course; you must pass the final exam and complete a research project. Participants must purchase required books/materials valued at approximately $900.

For more information, contact Leonor O'Relly, program coordinator:

Email: lorelly@admin.usf.edu  •  Phone: 813-974-4985


Colored Gemstones

Learn the distinctive properties, identification and grading of specific gems. Ruby, sapphire, emerald, topaz, jade and quartz identification are covered in depth, along with the social history and legends surrounding these specific gems. Study the properties of organic gem materials such as pearls, amber, coral and jet. Participants may request time to discuss gems of interest to them. (Purchase of textbook required.)

      Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

Diamond Identification and Grading

Learn the basic principles of diamond identification and grading (including grading for cut, color and clarity) and various grading systems. Examine the structure of the diamond market and concepts of evaluation and pricing. Learn identification techniques for diamond enhancements, synthetic diamonds, and diamond substitutes. Get hands-on opportunities to apply and practice your newly acquired skills. (Purchase of textbook required.)

      Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

Gemology Intermediate

Learn more about the physical and optical properties of gems and the use of testing equipment. Further your understanding of color and transition elements, use of hand spectroscope, and methods of synthesis and enhancements. Get in-depth information about inclusions. Examine weight estimation, precious metals, trademarks and hallmarks, and federal guidelines on disclosure. Gemology Introduction or equivalent course required. (Purchased of textbook required).

      Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

Gemology Introduction

Learn the basic physical and optical properties of gems, basic theories, simple practical methods to identify natural gems and synthetics, and the industry's language. (Purchase of textbook required)

      Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

Jewelry History

Learn about jewelry design and manufacturing techniques in their historical context and see how this affects identification, authentication, classification, valuation and appraisal. (Purchase of textbook required)

      Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

Jewelry Marketing

Learn how to market a jewelry business. Answer the four basic marketing questions of who, where, what, and how; and develop a marketing plan for an existing or future business. (Purchase of textbook required).

      Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

Marketing and Managing a Jewelry Business

This workshop will give you the tools to run a successful jewelry business. Learn the 4 P's of marketing and examine effective marketing/advertising strategies for your business. Explore management styles that increase motivation and production.

      Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.

Master Valuer Program: Appraising Gems and Jewelry

This program trains knowledgeable individuals to become an appraiser for gems and jewelry. Anna Miller, an international expert in appraisal science, developed the curriculum and approved Eva Ananiewicz to present it at USF. The program consists of classroom training, labs, and hands-on exercises to train the principles and methods of appraising gems and jewelry needed for a successful appraisal practice. You will study value theory and estimation; valuation concepts; appraisal terminology, procedures and methods; market research; and ethical and legal issues. Students who successfully complete this program will earn a certificate from USF and a Master Valuer Certificate from the California Institute of Jewelry Training. Prerequisites: Gemology experience/training, GIA training programs, USF's Gemology Certificate, or instructor approval. Participants must purchase required books/materials valued at approximately $900.

      Click here to be notified about the next scheduled program.