Scientific Gemmology Course (SGC)

(5 days, 4000.- Swiss Francs)

 

This expert training course is an intense gemmological programme that offers a detailed hands-on course that focuses on analytical methods that are used in the field of gemmology. The main topics that are covered are listed below with a description of the curriculum of each course day.

Aims of this course:

Course participants learn how to use analytical instrumentation in scientific gemmology. A second focus is on the correct interpretation and comparison of data. This course is only for experienced gemmologists or scientists with a sound education in gemmology.  

Course structure:

Day 1:

An introduction into scientific gemmology FTIR spectrometry

  • Jadeite, untreated and treated
  • Emeralds with various fissure fillings
  • Amber & imitations
  • N and H-containing diamond

Day 2:

UV-VIS-NIR  spectrometry

  • Diamond (incl. LNT)
  • Isotropic stones (e.g. garnets)
  • Anisotropic stones (e.g. sapphire)
  • Synthetic emeralds

Raman spectrometry and luminescence

  • Identification of cut and rough gemstones
  • Luminescence of Cr in spinel
  • Inclusions in corundum
  • Identification of emerald treatments
  • Rare gemstones, aggregates

Day 3:

X-ray spectrometry EDXRF

  • Characterization of garnets, nacre
  • Trace elements in emeralds, ruby, sapphire
  • Discrimination of synthetic emeralds

Laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS)

  • Be diffusion treated corundum
  • Emerald analyses

Day 4:

Scanning electron microscope coupled with EDS.

  • Mother-of-pearl (nacre)
  • Fissure filling in corundum and emerald


Pearl testing by X-ray shadow method and Pearl View X-ray luminescence

  • Natural and cultured pearls
  • Saltwater and freshwater pearls

Day 5:

Separating natural and synthetic diamonds. Use of Diamond View, Diamension and Spotter instruments.

Discussion of knowledge gained during the seminar and presentation of the SSEF Scientific Gemmology Certificates (SSEF SGC).

Information on dates & prices of courses


For additional details on the content of the course please do not hesitate to contact us.