Courses – Gemmological Association of Australia

Diploma Courses

Diploma courses are major courses and are generally undertaken over a period of up to two years. They involve practical and theoretical components with assessments including assignments, research and examinations.

Diploma in Gemmology

A part-time two year (equivalent) diploma course comprising of scientific study in order to identify faceted and rough gem material (gemstones).

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Diploma in Diamond Technology

An intensive course that focuses on all aspects of diamonds including practical and theoretical components.

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Online Courses

Our range of online courses offer flexible, accessible learning opportunities, allowing students to gain new skills and knowledge at their own pace from anywhere.

GAA Certificate in Opal Studies

Take your opal knowledge and skills to the next level. This comprehensive, richly illustrated online course encompasses opal science, gemmology, mining and processing, valuation, history, trade and industry, with coverage of opal from Australia and locations worldwide.

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Introductory Courses

Introductory courses are designed for the beginner wanting to gain an understanding into the wonderful world of gemmology. You might be involved in the jewellery trade or just fascinated by gems.

Introduction to Gems and Gemmology

Overview of natural gemstones, colour, original localities, hardness.

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Introduction to Ornamentals & Crystals

This one day course covers what is an ornamental and crystal gem materials and what is so special about them. How they are used now and in the past.

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Practical Introduction to Opal

This course will mainly have an emphasis on practical application. You will look at opal from a new perspective.

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Introduction to Coloured Gemstones

This one day course introduces a range of popular coloured gemstones to learn about.

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Ornamentals - Minerals & Rocks of Beauty

Learn about the huge variety of ornamentals that are used in jewellery in this one day course.

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Introduction to Opal

Fascinated with opal? Then you will enjoy our short course which introduces you to this wonderful gem.

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Introduction to Pearls

Learn how to identify a pearl (natural or cultured) from an imitation.

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Introduction to Pearls & Pearl Stringing

This informative course will cover the theory, history and identification of pearls as well as pearl stringing.

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Introduction to Separation of Natural and Synthetic Gemstones (Mandarin)

In this short 2-day course you will learn the basic techniques required to differentiate between natural and synthetic gemstones.

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Introduction to Diamonds

One day course will cover diamonds; natural, synthetics, treated and imitation, the 4 Cs, grading and identification.

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Introduction to Antique Jewellery

Over a single day session, learn the ins and outs of antique jewellery, from how to identify and describe through to materials used and more.

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Introduction to Crystals

See how elegantly nature turns complex minerals into beautiful crystals and learn about their structure, classifications and properties and how to identify them.

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Practical Courses

Practical courses are designed for the student who wants to develop their hand skills in a workshop or laboratory environment. Learn real practical skills from experts in their field.

Laboratory Grown or Natural Diamond

Man-made diamonds, Natural diamonds, and diamond simulants

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Practical Gemmology

Learn how to use gemmological equipment to do basic gemstone identification.

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Practical Introduction to Opal

This course will mainly have an emphasis on practical application. You will look at opal from a new perspective.

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Introduction to Pearls & Pearl Stringing

This informative course will cover the theory, history and identification of pearls as well as pearl stringing.

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Practical Diamond Grading

Learn weight estimation and visual estimation of the 4 C's as well as other features of practical diamond grading.

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Advanced Practical Diamond Grading

Take your diamond grading to the next level and learn how to grade fancy shapes and colours and screen for synthetics.

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Gem Handling

Handle gemstones like a professional and become familiar with the tools of the trade.

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Pearl & Bead Threading

Learn the traditional ways of threading, including knotting and finishing, to complete your own strings using natural gem beads and cultured pearls.

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Practical Antique Jewellery Workshop

Learn and practice identifying antique jewellery using examples from your own collection. A one-day practical workshop ideal for those who have already completed the Introduction to Antique Jewellery short course and want more hands-on time.

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Advanced Courses

Weird & Wonderful Gemstones

Join us for a journey into the fascinating world of weird & wonderful gemstones.

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Laboratory Grown or Natural Diamond

Man-made diamonds, Natural diamonds, and diamond simulants

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Gemmology Update and Synthetics

Extended study for qualified gemmologists, touching on most aspects of synthetic and treated gemstones.

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Advanced Gemstone Inclusions

Two-day course that extends beyond the Diploma in Gemmology course or equivalent, delving further into gemstone inclusions.

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Advanced Practical Diamond Grading

Take your diamond grading to the next level and learn how to grade fancy shapes and colours and screen for synthetics.

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Advanced Opals

Learn all about opal in this short two-day course that covers all aspects of the gemmology and science of opal including opal from Australia and overseas locations.

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Jewellery Industry Courses

Jewellery industry courses are open to anyone but are suited to those working in or looking to find work in the jewellery industry. They will provide you with skills and knowledge around the workplace to help you with your job.