In this first chapter we’ll explore what gemmology is, its history, and how gems become precious in the first place. We’ll also take a look at modern gemmology and how contemporary laboratories are equipped.

Here, we’ll take a closer look at gems, gemstones, the materials that make them up and how we can determine their quality.

In this chapter we will begin to break down the differences between natural and artificial gems, and explore how we can differentiate between substances produced in the earth, and synthetic ones produced in the laboratory.

Here, we begin to explore the unique properties of gems including their hardness, propensity to fracture or cleave, and their dimensions and weights.

In chapter five, we will begin to explore how we can observe gems. This ranges from looking with the naked eye using our hands, to using special lights under a microscope. We’ll also take a look at how to clean and handle small gemstones.

Here, we will begin to explore the complicated interactions between gemstones and light. This will include looking at colour, lustre, and the various optical effects that become apparent when illuminating gems.

In this chapter we take a much closer look at gems and explore their internal worlds. This includes identifying various inclusions within the gem material and identifying the origin of the stones – be it natural or synthetic.

Here, we take a look at how the appearance and durability of gems can be improved using methods such as heat or irradiation, oil and resin, or coating the stone in other materials.

In chapter nine we begin to explore the basics of cutting, setting and faceting stones. We’ll take a look at the various methods and forms of gem cutting and, in particular, more contemporary styles and techniques of doing so.

In this chapter we follow the journey of gems from mine to market, exploring the geology of gems and the effects and processes associated with mining. We’ll also consider how we determine the value of gems, and look at how stones can be traced back to a place of origin.

Finally, we’ll take a look at the lore of gemstones and explore some of the traditional properties attributed to them, including their believed medicinal uses and function as birthstones.

There is a mini quiz at the end of each chapter to test your knowledge and as you move through the course you will gradually unlock gemstones for additional reading and interesting facts on select gem materials. By the end of the course, you will have collected 32 gemstones for you to read about as you learn more about gemmology. Finally, after completing all the chapters and the gemstones you will be able to take the final assessment – and once passed you will be able to download and print off your certificate to keep. Once successfully completed you will have a level 2 qualification accredited by Ofqual.