Students that started in September 2026 are the first to study
the new and improved Gemmology Diploma course,
following the successful overhaul of the Gemmology Foundation course in 2025.
Press Release: Gem-A, London, United Kingdom
Gem-A – the Gemmological Association of Great Britain – is guiding the first cohort of students through its newly updated Gemmology Diploma course, incorporating a revised syllabus of theoretical and practical gem knowledge.
Designed to reflect the latest advances in gemmology, emerging technologies, fresh research and updated terminology, the new Gemmology Diploma began in September 2026 for on-site learners, online distance learning (ODL) students, and those studying through international accredited teaching centres (ATCs).
This latest upgrade to the historic Association’s suite of courses follows a major overhaul of the Gemmology Foundation course, a mandatory precursor to the Gemmology Diploma, which took place in 2025.
Gem-A CEO Cath Hill comments: “Countless hours have gone into ensuring our educational journey, from our beginner’s level GemIntro course to our flagship Gemmology Diploma, is academically robust and industry relevant. This latest overhaul completes our total upgrade of gemmology teaching, and I look forward to celebrating with the pioneering class of 2027.”
The Gem-A Gemmology Diploma, first conceived in 1908, is the world’s most respected gemmology qualification. Currently taught in five languages across 19 countries, it is recognised for its academically rigorous foundations and its focus on theoretical and practical study, equipping future gemmologists with real-world skills in gemstone testing and identification.
Past and present students have forged successful careers in a range of disciplines, including academic research, jewellery design, valuations, auctioneering, jewellery retail, jewellery wholesale, and teaching. Others have utilised the course to expand their professional credentials and excel in their chosen areas of expertise, often on an international stage.
Today, securing a Gemmology Diploma is the only viable route to becoming an FGA Member of Gem-A, thus allowing approved individuals to use the postnominals FGA in a professional capacity. These postnominals are widely recognised as a symbol of higher education, academic excellence and continuing professional development.
Hill adds: “The Gemmology Diploma is reassuringly challenging, meaning the individuals who pass have the skills, experience, knowledge and critical thinking skills to excel in whatever field they wish to pursue. Its rigour is exactly why the FGA postnominals are recognised and respected across the global gem and jewellery industry. They tell the world an individual has been trained to the highest standard and that their knowledge is current, relevant and trusted.”
Further courses offered by Gem-A include GemIntro, the Gemmology Foundation, and the Diamond Diploma, in addition to the practical Diamond Grading & Identification short course.
Further information about the Gem-A Gemmology Diploma can be found here: https://gem-a.com/education/study-gemmology/gemmology-diploma.
To explore the Gem-A education pathway, please visit gem-a.com/education.
