Frequently asked questions

What is gemmology?

Gemmology is that science that is concerned with gemstones and other materials used for personal adornment. It is a scientific discipline that has evolved from mineralogy — one of geology’s major components.

Twenty-first century gemmology involves the scientific study of gemstones (diamond, ruby, sapphire, emerald etc), ornamental materials (lapis lazuli, malachite), biological gem materials (amber, coral, ivory), and their synthetics and imitations. These materials must be identified and discriminated using a combination of established scientific fact, specialised gem testing instruments, and a comprehensive range of gem testing techniques. With advances in technology the academic and practical challenges being offered to the working gemmologist are ever increasing.

Although many people may not have heard of gemmology, it is not a new science. Long before The Gemmological Association of Australia was formed (in 1945) the world’s scientists were fascinated by the special properties possessed by gemstones.

For millennia, civilised man has been captivated by the beauty, mystery, rarity and value of what soon became known as (precious) gemstones. These much sought after objects of beauty and desire included diamond, ruby, sapphire, emerald, and pearl. While the adjectives precious and semi-precious are no longer used by gemmologists, today over 100 special minerals that posses the desirable attributes of beauty, rarity, and durability are termed gemstones. It is the scientific study of these very special minerals that forms the basis of the science of gemmology.

Over recent years ever-inventive man has duplicated many of Nature’s masterpieces, and in the process created precise man-made duplicates (synthetics) and very effective look-alikes (imitations). In addition, numerous techniques have been discovered for artificially enhancing the beauty of lower quality gemstones. The identification of these offers a continuing challenge to gemmology and gemmologists.

Gemmology is a science that is expanding at an exponential rate. If you wish to undertake the challenge of learning and understanding the science of gemmology, then The Gemmological Association of Australia’s courses in gemmology are for you.

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