Last updated on December 27, 2022
Whether you are an expert looking for professional development or a gemstone lover looking to build a career in gemology, success requires continuous learning. Have you always been interested to learn more about gems but not quite sure where to go? The Asian Institute of Gemological Sciences (AIGS) is a great place to continue your gemological journey. There is something for everyone at AIGS, with short courses in diamonds and coloured stones, the comprehensive Accredited Gemologist Program or the recently launched online courses.
History of the Asian Institute of Gemological Sciences
The Asian Institute of Gemological Sciences (AIGS) was founded in 1978 in Bangkok, Thailand, by the late Waing Kong Ho. A pioneer of Thailand’s gemstone industry, W.K Ho is recognized for bringing modernity and growth to Bangkok, the gemstone capital of the world. He is also credited for building Asia’s largest gems and jewellery trading hub, the Jewelry Trade Centre (JTC).
AIGS was Southeast Asia’s first international gemological education facility and laboratory with gemstone testing and grading services. In 1978, AIGS was the first gem laboratory in the world to purchase a Raman spectrophotometer, a revolution that allowed for the quick chemical analysis and origin determination of a gemstone. The Asian Institute of Gemological Sciences also graded the world’s largest faceted diamond, the 545.67 carats Golden Jubilee, before it was presented to the Thai King H.M. Bhumibol Adulyadej in 1996.
The AIGS School provides professional training for those looking to expand their opportunities within the gems and jewellery industry. Today, with more than 15,000 graduates from all over the world, AIGS continues to foster the appreciation of gemstones through its on-campus and online educational programs.
On-Campus Education at AIGS
AIGS offers an Intensive Accredited Gemologist program that covers the key aspects of gemology. You will learn the practical skills to identify gemstones by examining hundreds of stones as well as how to grade diamonds and coloured gemstones with proper instrument use and techniques. You will also gain the skills to detect synthetic and treated gemstones that are vital in today’s gems and jewellery industry.
AIGS students are also given exciting opportunities to visit various gemstone mining localities, jewellery production facilities and gemstone trading hubs throughout Thailand. At the end of your study, you will have all the required knowledge and skills to become a proficient gemologist earning the Accredited Gemologist (A.G.) Diploma.
If you wonder what you can do after completing the program, the possibilities are endless: appraisal and valuation, auction house jewellery specialist, coloured stone buyer, dealership, diamond buyer, diamond grader, education, estate jewellery dealer, gemologist, geology, jewellery business owner, jewellery buyer, laboratory and research, manufacturing and design, lapidary, marketing and communication, mineralogy, pawnbroker, retail, sales associate, as well as sorting and wholesale to name a few.
The program is ideal for gemstone traders, gem experts, buyers, retailers, appraisers, graders, gemstone lovers and all Diamond Buzz readers.
Online Gemology Education at AIGS
While gemology is a fascinating undertaking, it is not always possible to travel overseas to study. Luckily, this is not a problem, as online gemology courses are just a click away.
The Asian Institute of Gemological Sciences recently launched its Online Education Platform for students who wish to acquire theoretical gemstone knowledge anytime and anywhere. Several courses are currently offered, including:
- Diamond Grading & Pricing,
- Gem Identification,
- Colored Stone Grading & Pricing,
- Ruby & Sapphire Essentials,
- Synthetic & Treated Gem Identification.
Curious how it works? We have tested it out for you. Once you are enrolled, you will get access to the course via a login where you can start learning at your own pace. Each course consists of professional lessons accompanied by high-quality images, graphics and sometimes videos. In case you have questions, you can post comments below each lesson, and an AIGS instructor will reply to you directly. There are quizzes after each lesson to help you test your knowledge and a final exam at the end. After successfully passing, you will earn an AIGS Certificate of Completion.
AIGS online courses are ideal for both beginners and professionals alike and serve as a wonderful gateway into the enchanting world of gemology, all from the convenience of your home.
Featured image © Asian Institute of Gemological Sciences
