A Gemologist is a person who studies gemstones. Sounds simple enough, but not quite. To study a gem you need to go through various steps. Some of these steps include, taking courses that enable you to distinguish different types of gems, appraise them, and weigh them.

How is being a Gemologist related to chemistry?

A professional gemologist determines whether a gem is natural or synthetic and if it is a colored stone, whether it is color treated or not.

What educational background is needed to become a Gemologist?

To become a gemologist, you must go through a number of courses such as Diamonds, Diamond Grading, Colored Stones, Colored Stone Grading, and Gem Identification. After completing these courses you obtain the title "Graduate Gemologist". However, being called a "Graduate Gemologist" is the same as being called a "Gemologist". Being a Graduate Gemologist, or Gemologists, means that you have the ability to do things, such as identify a gem with ease. The education needed for this job can be obtained at GIA, or Gemological Institute of America, in California. Here, you can obtain the premiere training to become a gemologist. Many things are useful, however, to being a gemologist, for example, math and science background, liberal arts education, and the knowledge of foreign languages. None of these are required, however, they help a lot.

What is an average salary for a Gemologist?

The average annual earnings for a gemologist varies from $19,1400 to $35,150 a year. In the year 2000 the average earnings were $26,330. When just starting out, a Gemologist may earn the lowest amount, but as they obtain experience, the amount increases.

What are the working conditions for a Gemologist?

The working conditions of a Gemologist differ. Some work in a jewelry store, some work in their own labs, while some share labs. Most work independently.

What is the job outlook for a Gemologist?

The field of Gemology is not expected to change much over the next 7 years. Whether a Gemologist has good business depends largley on the economics of the where they live. If the demand for jewlrey is down, a gemologist will not have good business. However, if the demand is high, they will have good business.