Gemology
6 courses · Santiago Canyon College · 2025-2026 Catalog
GEM 011 Introductory Colored Stones
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 108 contact hours total
Introduction to identification, appreciation, and evaluation of colored gemstones. Overview of the world colored-stone industry. Experience using gemological testing equipment and procedures to identify the most commonly seen varieties of natural and synthetic-fashioned gemstones.
GEM 012 Advanced Colored Stones
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 108 contact hours total
- Advisory
- GEM 011 (Introductory Colored Stones)
Advanced identification, appreciation, and evaluation of colored gemstones. Overview of the world colored-stone industry. Further experience using gemological testing equipment to identify the most commonly seen varieties of both natural and synthetic-fashioned gemstones.
GEM 015 Colored Stones and Diamond Lab
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 contact hours total
- Advisory
- Previous or concurrent enrollment in another Gemology course
Laboratory experience in testing and identification of colored gemstones and/or full grading of diamonds for clarity, color, cut and carat weight.
GEM 020 Diamonds
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 108 contact hours total
Full range of diamond grading techniques, history, diamond substitutes, physical and optical properties, all types of synthetic, techniques of valuing/pricing, famous diamonds, detecting enhancements.
GEM 030 Antique and Period Jewelry
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 contact hours total
The history, techniques, styles, and periods of antique and period jewelry. Identification of period pieces from Georgian to Retro, including authentic vs. reproductions. Includes types of metals and materials, stone cutting, setting techniques, and types of gemstones used.
GEM 050 Pearls
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 contact hours total
Introduction to the history, appreciation, and evaluation of natural and cultured pearls, including an overview of the world pearl industry. Pearl identification and grading techniques covering the physical and optical properties for judging the luster, surface, shape, color, and size of the various types.