Gemstone Courses
Whether you are a seasoned industry veteran or a newcomer to the world of gemstones, PGSL offers classes that will build your skill set to empower you in the industry. Courses emphasize practical, real-world application. This means nurturing skills that are simple and repeatable. These course descriptions listed below provide a brief synopsis of what the prospective student can expect from a class.
Introduction to Gemstone Identification
​Discover the fundamentals of gemstone identification in this hands-on, two-day course. Learn to use essential tools like the refractometer, UV light, and microscope to distinguish natural from synthetic stones. With 10+ hours of guided practice, you’ll build confidence in recognizing key gemstone characteristics. Earn a Certificate of Completion upon successfully finishing the course.
Gemstone Grading & Identification
​Our signature four-day class expands on the Gem ID 101 course, diving deeper into the “Big Three” gemstones—ruby, emerald, and sapphire—while building your ability to accurately identify any gem. With over 400 sample stones to study, you’ll explore treatments, enhancements, and synthetics through intensive, hands-on training (20+ contact hours). Complete the course to earn your Certificate of Completion..
Advanced Gemstone Grading & Identification Course
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This course advances color science in the jewelry industry. Students learn accurate color terminology, study the Munsell Color Order System, and practice using *The World of Color* to grade gemstones and relate color to market value. The course also addresses challenges in consistent color assessment and provides techniques for achieving standardized, repeatable results. Successful participants earn a Certificate of Completion.
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Advanced Sapphire Identification
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This advanced course delves into the topic of enhancement and origin analysis. Students work hands on with the instructor on stone sets designed to differentiate the internal features of enhanced and unenhanced sapphire. Along with the laboratory's stone library, PGSL opens their image bank to reveal patterns in internal features from various geographic origins. All students who successfully complete this course will receive a Certificate of Completion.
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Advanced Emerald Identification
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This advanced course focuses on emerald enhancement and origin analysis. Students work hands-on with stone sets to distinguish features of treated and untreated emeralds and learn how treatment levels affect value. Using PGSL’s stone library and image bank, the course highlights internal feature patterns tied to geographic origin. Successful participants earn a Certificate of Completion.