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Gemmology (Diploma)

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Course Overview

This Diploma in Scientific Studies (Gemmology) provides an introduction to the science of gemmology for people with a general interest in gemstones, as well as for those working in the jewellery and related trades. The programme aims to provide the student with a broad introduction to the study of gemstones. It teaches a range of laboratory–based techniques used to identify gemstones and provides the student with hands-on experience in identification protocols using a comprehensive collection of gemstones. The programme also includes studies of typical geological settings of gemstones during lectures and field trips to Connemara.

Applications and Selections

Apply Online

The closing date is 4-August 2017
Early application is advised.  Offers will be made when a minimum number of applications have been received.
A limited number of applications may be accepted after the official application closing date, subject to the availability of places.

 

Who Teaches this Course

Requirements and Assessment

All modules in the Diploma are individually assessed. Assessment is by examination (written and practical) at the end of each semester and by continuous assessment.

This is a two-year, part-time programme. Classes are held one evening per week (Wednesdays).

Basic computer skills will be an advantage. E-mail, internet and NUI Galway's online learning environment are in use throughout the course.

All applicants, whose first language is not English, or who have not been educated through the medium of the English language during their two most recent years of study, must present one of the following qualifications in the English language: IELTS: 6.5 or TOEFL (IBT): 92. Please see this webpage for further information: https://www.nuigalway.ie/international-students/english.html

Candidates who are 21 years or over on or before January 1 st of year of entry may gain entry to the programme on the basis of mature years. Candidates under 21 years should meet the minimum matriculation requirements as outlined in the Frequently Asked Questions section.

 

Key Facts

Entry Requirements

There are no specific entry requirements for the Diploma in Gemmology.

Candidates who are 21 years or over on or before January 1st of year of entry may gain entry to the programme on the basis of mature years. Candidates under 21 years should meet the minimum matriculation requirements as outlined in the Frequently Asked Questions section.


Additional Requirements

Duration

2 years, part-time

Next start date

13th September 2017

A Level Grades ()

Average intake

Unlimited

Closing Date

4-August 2017

Next start date

13th September 2017

NFQ level

7

Mode of study

Classroom-based, Wednesdays (September 2017 intake), 6:30 - 9:30pm

ECTS weighting

30

Award

CAO

PAC code

Course Outline

The programme consists of lectures, laboratory demonstrations and practicals including tuition on good practice in the identification of gemstones from the programme’s teaching collection which comprises in excess of 200 cut stones. The programme also focuses on the examination of these gemstones using a range of laboratory instruments including binocular microscope, refractometer, spectroscope, polariscope and conoscope.

 The programme includes the following topics:

  • The Dynamic Earth
  • Earth History
  • Earth Materials
  • The Formation and Geological Settings of Gemstones
  • Global Distribution of Gemstones
  • The Crystallography and Mineralogy of Gemstones
  • The Optical Properties of Crystals Gemstone
  • Properties and Instrumentation
  • Recording Gemstone Properties/Identification
  • Protocols
  • Fashioning of Gemstones
  • Synthetic Gemstones (Enhancements and Imitations)
  • Systematic Recording of the Physical and Optical
  • Properties of Gemstones

There are also two, one day field trips to Connemara to study crystals and minerals in their natural settings

Why Choose This Course?

Career Opportunities

Students of the programme find employment in gemmological work (quality control, authentification) and jewellery (retail and design) trades. Students may also find work as valuators for the insurance industry.

Who’s Suited to This Course

The course is open to everyone and is designed for those with no previous training in gemmology.   It is suitable as an introductory course for people with a general interest in gemstones, as well as for those working in the jewellery and related trades.

Learning Outcomes

Work Placement

Study Abroad

Related Student Organisations

Course Fees

Fees: EU

€970 p.a.

Fees: Tuition

€

Fees: Student levy

€

Fees: Non EU

€1,470 p.a.

 
A fees scholarship of up to 30% may be available for students who wish to upskill for the purposes of re-employment.  Students must be registered as unemployed and in receipt of one of the following: 

  • Job-seekers Benefit
  • Job-seekers Allowance
  • One-parent family allowance
  • Disability allowance
  • Community Employment Scheme
  • Carer’s Allowance
  • Signing for social insurance contribution credits

Please download the 2017_18 Fees Scholarship Form CALPD for more information.

 

Find out More

Dr. Alessandra Costanzo
Earth and Ocean Sciences
School of Natural Sciences
NUI Galway
Tel: 091 492087
Fax: 091 494533
Email: alessandra.costanzo@nuigalway.ie

Access the Student Launchpad for course outlines, timetables etc.

 

 

What Our Students Say

Georgina

Georgina Callanan |   Past Student

For as long as I can remember I have had an interest in gemstones. This fascinating course takes you through the geological formation of gemstones, identifying gemstone properties and most of all, hands on practical experience with gemmological equipment and specimens. This course helped me get back to learning something exciting and new and made learning fun again. It impressed me so much that I am currently pursuing a career in gemmology. Most of all, what made the course experience all the more worthwhile was the care and dedication shown by the course lecturers ensuring that everyone was learning together and that the course was enjoyable for all.

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