Toll Free 1-877-644-9992
There was an error. Please try again.
This page is already listed in your guide. Please choose a different page to add.
Appraiser
In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.
The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used. Here is how this occupation has been classified over time:
Interest in precision working to examine, cut, shape and polish diamonds and precious and synthetic gems using optical instruments, lathes, laps and cutting disks
Interest in analyzing information to differentiate between stones, to appraise gemstones and diamonds, and to identify rare specimens
Interest in cutting, sawing and filing articles in preparation for further processing
The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation.
It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective and Social.
Each set of 3 interest codes is listed in order of importance.
A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.
A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.
Duties vary from one position to another in this occupation but, in general, gemmologists:
To identify gems, gemmologists may:
Depending on where they work, gemmologists may have a variety of additional responsibilities. For related information, see the Jeweller occupational profile.
Gemmologists may work full time, part time, or on a contract or freelance basis. Travel often is required for those involved in selling wholesale gems or jewellery to retailers.
Gemmologists need:
Gemmologists should enjoy using tools and instruments to perform tasks requiring precision, analyzing information to appraise gemstones, and having clear guidelines and organized methods for their work.
Training in gemmology generally involves a combination of formal instruction and experience. Employers prefer to hire gemmologists who have at least Grade 12 education and a diploma or other accreditation in gemmology. Computer skills and courses in geology, chemistry and physics are definite assets.
Prospective students are advised to discuss their career plans with practising gemmologists before choosing a training route. Training programs are offered in a variety of formats (full-time classroom instruction, seminars and distance education) by sources such as :
For current information about programs, admission requirements and mature student admission policies, please check post-secondary calendars or websites.
Ongoing professional development is required for gemmologists to keep their skills and knowledge up to date.
For a broad list of programs and courses that may be related to this occupation try searching using keywords.
There is currently no provincial legislation regulating this occupation in Alberta.
Most gemmologists are self-employed. They may work for:
Becoming an independent gem dealer requires a large financial investment. With experience and additional training, gemmologists may become appraisers who apply their knowledge of the market value of gemstones to estimate their worth.
Gemmologists are part of the larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 6344: Jewellers, jewellery and watch repairers, and related occupations In Alberta, 91% of people employed in this classification work in the following industries:
The employment outlook [pdf] in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:
In Alberta, the 6344: Jewellers, jewellery and watch repairers and related occupations occupational group is expected to have a below-average annual growth of 0% from 2019 to 2023. In addition to job openings created by employment turnover, 0 new positions are forecasted to be created within this occupational group each year.
Gemmologists’ earnings vary depending on the scope of their responsibilities, location, the method of payment and the gemmologist’s qualifications.
Canadian Gemmological Association (CGA) website: canadiangemmological.com
Canadian Institute of Gemmology (CIG) website: www.cigem.ca
Canadian Jewellers Association (CJA) website: www.canadianjewellers.com
Gemmological Association of Great Britain (Gem-A) website: gem-a.com
Gemological Institute of America (GIA) website: www.gia.edu
Get information and referrals about career, education, and employment options from Alberta Supports.
Updated Mar 31, 2017. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook, and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.