Gemmologist

Duties vary from one position to another in this occupation but, in general, gemmologists:

• identify different types of gemstones (for example, diamond, emerald, jade, ruby, topaz) and their synthetic counterparts
• differentiate between natural gems and stones that have been treated to enhance their colour or clarity or to stabilize them 
• grade gemstones and pearls.

To identify gems, gemmologists may:

• examine surface and internal characteristics under magnification using a loupe or microscope
• use equipment such as a polariscope, dichroscope or polarising filter to detect optical characteristics  
• measure refractive indices and, in some cases, interpret optical character and optic sign
• analyze absorption and fluorescent spectra
• measure specific gravity (for example, by using hydrostatic or heavy liquid immersion techniques or by using calibrated measuring tools and calculating the weight of mounted stones)
• use other sophisticated testing procedures to identify synthetic and treated gem materials.

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 the following characteristics:

• honesty and integrity
• good colour vision
• manual dexterity
• good communication skills
• able to pay close attention to details
• interested in geology, physics and chemistry
• able to work independently or as part of a team
• able to meet deadlines.

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.

Most gemmologists are self-employed. They may work for:

• retail jewellers
• appraisal laboratories
• wholesalers of diamonds and coloured gems
• jewellery manufacturers
• auction houses, pawnbrokers and other buyers and sellers of estate jewellery.

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:

• Retail Trade (PDF)
• Other Services (PDF)
• Manufacturing (PDF)

The employment outlook in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:

• trends and events affecting overall employment (especially in the industries listed above)
• location in Alberta
• employment turnover (work opportunities generated by people leaving existing positions)
• occupational growth (work opportunities resulting from the creation of new positions that never existed before)
• size of the occupation.

Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.

Canadian Jewellers Association website: www.canadianjewellers.com

Gemological Institute of America website: www.gia.edu

For more information on career planning, education and jobs, visit the Alberta Learning Information Service (ALIS) website, call the Alberta Career Information Hotline toll-free at 1-800-661-3753 or 780-422-4266 in Edmonton, or visit an Alberta Works Centre near you.