The Gemological Institute of America will teach its Diamond Grading and Colored Stone Grading classes, along with several other gemology Extension classes, at Vancouver Community College starting April 25.

Diamond Grading will be taught April 25–29, while Colored Stone Grading will be offered May 2–4. Both are required for the Graduate Gemologist diploma. In Diamond Grading, students work with a GIA instructor and actual diamonds as they learn to consistently and accurately grade diamonds using the International Diamond Grading System, created by GIA. Students in Colored Stone Grading develop skills in grading the color, clarity, and cut quality factors of a wide range of colored stones, and learn how to explain these factors to customers.

The Loupe Grading Challenge on April 30 will include one part on grading diamonds and identifying imitations, and a second part on natural vs. synthetic diamonds and diamond treatments. Previous gemological training or experience is suggested before taking this class.

Other classes offered in Vancouver will include Pearl Grading on May 5, Detecting Synthetic Diamonds and Synthetic Moissanite on May 6, and Advanced Diamond Grading Lab on May 6.

To enroll, contact Vancouver Community College at 604-443-8381. For fee information, contact Peggy Worobetz at 604-443-8670, or pworobetz@vcc.ca. The college requests that applications be made by March 23.

JCK