Education 101:
There are various educational tracks you can take to achieve the title Registered Jeweler or Registered Supplier of the American Gem Society. The overall goal is to have a working knowledge in diamonds and colored gemstones. This means not only course work that can be completed from your home or office, but also hands-on experience in a structured classroom.
The GIA Accredited Jewelry Professional (AJP) Diploma
Diamond Essentials course: an overview of the 4 Cs.
Colored Stones Essentials course: natural gems, synthetics, treatments, and disclosure.
Jewelry Essentials course: silver, gold, and platinum metals as well as key jewelry terms.
The AJP diploma is earned by the successful completion of all three subjects; each requires a proctored exam. There is no hands-on grading of diamonds or colored stones.
The GIA 5-day Diamond Grading Lab
One-on-one training with a GIA instructor; requires a minimum number of diamonds to be graded and the successful grading of two diamonds on the final day (with a score of 75% or better average of the two).
Registered Jeweler Program: Students working for an AGS member who are intending to become Registered Jewelers or Registered Suppliers should enroll with the GIA as an "RJ or RS Candidate." This will entitle the student to a substantial savings on the GIA Lab class. See the GIA catalog for locations of classes.
Certified Gemologist Appraiser American Gem Society —Examination
Certified Gemologist — educational and experience requirements
Appraisals I, II — lecture
Theory Exam — multiple choice
Practical Exam — written appraisals
Any active retail member and Graduate Gemologist may enroll for this exam; however, the title is not awarded until all experience requirements are met and the firm member has an Accredited Gem Lab.
Please see the Calendar for more information.
Scholarship Opportunities
Jewelers of America — 800.223.0673 — www.jewelers.org
Women’s Jewelry Association — 973.575.7190 — www.womensjewelry.org
Gemological Institute of America — 800.421.7250 — www.gia.edu
American Gem Society — 702.255.6500 — www.ags.org
Calendar
Online American Gem Society Calendar for the year.
Online Testing
Take the annual Recertification Exam online.
Take The AGS Professional questionnaire for the Certified Sales Associate designation online.
