Vancouver C.I.G. courses and workshops - Fall/Winter 2010/2011Vancouver C.I.G. courses and workshops - Fall/Winter 2010/2011
for Fall 2010 - REGISTER by September 15
The Canadian Institute of Gemmology is offering a self-guided study program for students who have completed a gemmology program with another institution.
Upon successful completion of the AG-PDP graduates are entitled to use the international recognized professional Accredited Gemmologist (C.I.G.)® designation - a registered certification mark.
Entrance requirement: "Fine Jewellery Expert (C.I.G.)", F.G.A. or equivalent from other international institutions; foreign candidates may apply but must enter Canada under a visitor's visa (no student visas available). If credentials were obtained before 2001 a practical entrance test must be passed.
Course credits required: all GEM 200-level courses such as GEM 210 Diamond Grading, GEM 220 Advanced Gemmology, GEM 230 Gem Colour Grading, GEM 250 Gem Identification II; for more info go to Advanced (GEM 200-level) Courses.
GEM 250 Gem Identification II: For this course it is recommended that students have basic gem equipment at their disposal to complete individual projects at home or at their work place; students will also learn the use of UV- VIS - NIR spectrometers. There will be a four-day practical workshop at the end of the program; the last day will be exam-day for both written and practical exam.
Our new USB portable GL Gem SpectrometerTM (GLGemSpec 300 - 1000 nm FWHM <1.00 nm) with customized software is available now.
The prize for a basic setup including fiber probe, GL Tungsten Halogen Light Source (GLHalogen 10W) and soft-ware is under $ 1,800. See for more information with specs and introductory pricing.
Microscope camera with Dell Mini 9" netbook
The GL Gem Spectrometer will be offered at a discount to A.G. (C.I.G.) graduates and participants in the AG-PDP program; the upgrade GEM 250 course will contain a training module for the broad range GL Gem Spectrometer. We will report about the testing phase in the CIGem News Summer 2010 edition. Read more at Gemlab Research & Technology.
To obtain certification as an "Accredited Gemmologist (C.I.G.)®" a scientific paper has to be submitted within 6 months of completion of the A.G. (C.I.G.) diploma program. See course outline or View/Download program brochure 404k (Acrobat Reader or plug-in needed (right-click for direct View/Download to your computer). View/Download Application Form 232k, Acrobat Reader or plug-in needed. If you have any further questions about the AG-PDP program please call (604) 530-8569.
Gem Identification ($ 995 includes all study materials, access to fully equipped workstation and exam fees (no HST)
In this intensive lab course you will use the full range of gem testing equipment necessary to identify natural, imitation and synthetic gemstones. In 10 lab assignments students will identify between 80 and 100 gemstones including synthetic stones. Each student has access to a fully equipped work-station with stereo-microscope, polariscope, refractometer, spectroscope and other instruments.
Course GEM 150 Sat - Tue, Nov. 13 - 16, 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (4 day course)
Yes, I want to register in this course (4 day course)
This course is also available by home study (for Canadian residents only): student must have access to basic gem identification tools such as refractometer, polariscope, spectroscope, etc. Study stone sets will be sent by mail and guidance is available through 
Skype video tutorial with an instructor. More info.
Diamond Grading ($ 995 includes home study lessons (must be completed prior to practical class), grading projects with actual diamonds, study materials and exam fees (no HST) but does not include the textbook "Diamond Grading ABC: Handbook of Diamond Grading" by Pagel Theisen, 2007 (price $ 80)
In ten (10) assignments you learn the basic knowledge to buy, sell and evaluate diamonds effectively. In five (5) practical sessions you grade diamonds for clarity, colour and cut (according to GIA and European grading standards) including performance and device based approaches such as AGS (American Gem Society) ASET, Hearts & Arrows (Ideal Scope), Cut Advisor and others. Special procedures for assessing the quality of mounted diamonds will be shown.
Fee: $ 995 includes home study lessons (must be completed prior to practical class), grading projects with actual diamonds, study materials and exam fee (no HST) but does not include the textbook "Diamond Grading ABC: Handbook of Diamond Grading" by Pagel Theisen, 2007 (price $ 80)
Prerequisite: Course GEM 130 Introduction to Diamonds
Diamond Expert (C.I.G) Certificate
To earn the "Diamond Expert" designation students have to complete Course GEM 130 Diamonds and GEM 210 Diamond Grading with a passing mark of at least 85% in their course work. An annual license fee of $ 100 and upgrade courses are required to maintain their status. Please refer to the course brochure.
View/Download program outline 344k (Acrobat Reader or plug-in needed (right-click for direct View/Download to your computer).
for 2010/2011 - Register by December 31Gemmology I and II ($995/30 hours, 10 sessions includes binder with study materials but not the text-books "Guide to Gems" by Oldershaw, 2004 (price $ 14.95) and "Gemmology, 3rd edition, 2008" by Peter Read (price $ 50.00) (no HST) - NEW CLASS
This course combines GEM 110 and GEM 120 introducing the basic identifying features of all important gems, including their appearance, special physical and optical characteristics, their occurrence and value factors. Also included is an introduction to diamond and colour gem grading, the use of gemmological instruments to aid identification. GEM 120 covers the F.G.A. preliminary exam syllabus. This course is also pre-requisite for GEM 150 Gem Identification I (see below).
Yes, I want to register in this course
Introduction to Gems and Jewellery (Gemmology I) ($695/30 hours, 10 sessions or 2 weekends, includes text-books and exam fees (no HST)- NEW: Weekend Classes
This is a general interest course introducing the basic identifying features of all important gems, including their appearance, special physical and optical characteristics, their occurrence and value factors. Also included is an introduction to diamond and colour gem grading, the use of gemmological instruments to aid identification.
Course Content: 1. Nature of Gemstones (1), Diamonds and Corundum 2. Nature of Gemstones (2), Beryl and organic gems 3. Crystal Structure and Origin of Gems, Opal, Topaz and Jade 4. Gem Cutting and Care, Garnet, Quartz and Spodumene 5.Gemstone Identification (1), Tourmaline, Chrysoberyl and others 6. Gemstone Identification (2), Diamond Grading (1) 7. Gemstone Economics, Markets and Values, Diamond Grading (2) 8. Colour Gem Grading and Appraisals 9. Gem Enhancement and Synthetic Gems 10. Review, Jewellery Manufacture, History and Fashion
This course is also available by correspondence. More info.
Introduction to Diamonds ($ 495/ 6 units includes text-book "Diamond Buying Guide"; Fred Ward Series "Diamonds" and exam fees (no HST)
In this course you will learn everything you need to know about diamonds. Sell more and answer customer questions with confidence. Introduction to diamond grading and jewellery fashion.
Course Content: 1. Diamonds. How they are created. 2. The Beauty of Diamonds 3. Weight and Colour of Diamonds. 4. Judging the Clarity of Diamonds. 5. Judging the Cut of Diamonds. 6. Diamond or Imitation? Gold, Platinum. 7. Choosing an Appropriate Style. 8. Choosing a Diamond Ring, Judging Craftmanship.
This course is also available by correspondence. More info.
Pearls, Opal and Jade ($ 495/ 6 sessions includes text-book "Pearl Buying Guide"; Fred Ward Series "Pearls", "Opal" and "Jade" and exam fees (no HST)
In this course you will learn about pearl types and shapes, how to judge luster, thickness, colour and size of pearls. The identification and evaluation of South Sea, black and freshwater pearls and other organic gems are also covered. There will be one session on opal and its evaluation. Another session will cover the jades - oriental jadeite and nephrite.
This course is also available by correspondence. More info.
Introduction to Gemmology
To earn the "Introduction to Gemmology" certificate students are required to complete the GEM 110 "Introduction to Gemstones" course and the home study course GEM 120 Gemmology II. The GEM 150 Gem Identification I workshop (see below) completes the program.
Fine Jewellery Expert (C.I.G) Certificate
To earn the "Fine Jewellery Expert (C.I.G.)" designation you have to complete the six 100-level courses GEM 110 Gemstones (Gemmology I), GEM 120 Gemmology II, GEM 130 Diamonds, GEM 140 Jewellery, History and Design, GEM 150 Gem Identification I and 160 Pearls, Opal and Jade. It can be completed in 12 weeks; students attend evening classes and compact weekend seminars and complete the other courses through home-study.
View/Download course outline 344k (Acrobat Reader or plug-in needed (right-click for direct View/Download to your computer))
Gem Identification ($ 995 includes all study materials, access to fully equipped workstation and exam fees (no HST)
In this intensive lab course you will use the full range of gem testing equipment necessary to identify natural, imitation and synthetic gemstones. In 10 lab assignments students will identify between 80 and 100 gemstones including synthetic stones. Each student has access to a fully equipped work-station with stereo-microscope, polariscope, refractometer, spectroscope and other instruments.
Prerequisite: Course GEM 110 Introduction to Gemstones and Course GEM 120 Gemmology II
This course is also available by home study (for Canadian residents only): student must have access to basic gem identification tools such as refractometer, polariscope, spectroscope, etc. Study stone sets will be sent by mail and guidance is available through Skype video tutorial with an instructor. More info.
Diamond Grading ($ 995 includes home study lessons (must be completed prior to practical class), grading projects with actual diamonds, study materials and exam fees (no HST) but does not include the textbook "Diamond Grading ABC: Handbook of Diamond Grading" by Pagel Theisen, 2007 (price $ 80)
In ten (10) assignments you learn the basic knowledge to buy, sell and evaluate diamonds effectively. In five (5) practical sessions you grade diamonds for clarity, colour and cut (according to GIA and European grading standards) including performance and device based approaches such as AGS (American Gem Society) ASET, Hearts & Arrows (Ideal Scope), Cut Advisor and others. Special procedures for assessing the quality of mounted diamonds will be shown.
Fee: $ 995 includes home study lessons (must be completed prior to practical class), grading projects with actual diamonds, study materials and exam fee (no HST) but does not include the textbook "Diamond Grading ABC: Handbook of Diamond Grading" by Pagel Theisen, 2007 (price $ 80)
Prerequisite: Course GEM 130 Introduction to Diamonds
Diamond Expert (C.I.G) Certificate
To earn the "Diamond Expert" designation students have to complete Course GEM 130 Diamonds and GEM 210 Diamond Grading with a passing mark of at least 85% in their course work. An annual license fee of $ 100 and upgrade courses are required to maintain their status. Please refer to the course brochure.
View/Download program outline 344k (Acrobat Reader or plug-in needed (right-click for direct View/Download to your computer).
Tuition includes all required textbooks, study materials, examination fees where indicated and are income tax deductible. We reserve the right to cancel courses if there is insufficient enrolment; upon return of any course materials received students will receive a full refund for the tuition paid but no other compensation can be offered. Please wait with travel arrangements until final confirmation. View/Download and read carefully our refund policy .
Registration and Info Meeting at 555 Seymour Street, Room 421 on Wednesday, September 14, 2011 between 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. before classes start. Please call us for an appointment at (604) 530-8569); you can register in person and pick up your course materials.
Director of Education: J. Wolf Kuehn, B.A., M.A., Dipl.oec., F.G.A., F.G.G., Professional Member - British Columbia College of Teachers
View/Download Application Form 232k, Acrobat Reader or plug-in needed (right-click for direct View/Download to your computer)
For more information call the Registrar at (604) 530-8569 or one of our area instructors. If you wish to obtain your certification as an Accredited Gemmologist (C.I.G.)® a grade 12 high school diploma or equivalent is required. Students can start their course work at any time.
Individual courses and certificate programs must be completed within 12 months; the diploma program is usually completed within 24 months. Students may apply for extensions but may have to pay additional fees for new text-books and study materials. Students with learning disabilities (such as dyslexia) may need a professional tutor and should consult their medical practicioner before registering.
The passing mark for all written exams is 65%, for practical exams 100%; the "Diamond and Fine Gem Expert" certificates require a 80% mark and expire after eight (8) years. All examination fees are included in the tuition. The administrative fee for a second written exam is $ 100 and for a practical exam $ 200. Students may attempt to re-write a failed exam two times after paying the required fee within 6 months (after a waiting period of 1 month). A failed third attempt will lead to the dismissal of the student from the school.
In the Gem Identification I and II (Course GEM 150 or GEM 250) class an organic liquid (methylene iodide) saturated with sulphur is being used in conjunction with the refractometer. The school cannot assume any liability for any allergic or medical reactions a student may experience from its use. Please consult your health practicioner.
To earn your Accredited Gemmologist (C.I.G.)® diploma all 100 and 200-level credit courses must be completed; we recommend that you start your program with course GEM 110 Introduction to Gems and Jewellery or GEM 130 Introduction to Diamonds. The program can be completed in 6 months. January and September starting dates are recommended for Vancouver students. Foreign students on a visitor's visa are welcome. At the moment we cannot assist non-resident students in obtaining a student VISA or help in finding accomodation.
The Canadian Institute of Gemmology (C.I.G.) is a nonprofit, post-secondary educational institution incorporated with Letters Patent, dated September 28, 1990 under the Canada Corporations Act.
It has been certified as an educational institute and approved by the Minister of Human Resources and Social Development Canada (HRDC) under subparagraphs 118.5(1)(a)(ii) and 118.6(1)(a)(ii) of the Income Tax Act. Accordingly, a student may claim fees paid to the institution for purposes of the tuition, education and textbook tax credits provided that the fees qualify as eligible tuition expenses, the student has attained the age of 16 years before the end of the year, the course can reasonably be regarded as providing or improving skills in an occupation and all other criteria for eligibility have been met. Additional details are also available on the Internet at http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca
The Canadian Institute of Gemmology was registered with the Private Career Training Institutions Agency (PCTIA) as a Private Career Training Institution from 1983 until 2006. With changes to the PCTIA Bylaws and transformation of our diploma and certificate programs into a course credit system the school was no longer required to maintain full accreditation status and upon request has been deregistered. As a consequence the courses are not eligible for Canada Student Loan requirements. Further we are unable to enrol and assist foreign students who wish to come to Canada on a student visa. Foreign students are welcome to take our courses by correspondence and attend local classes on a visitor's visa. Please contact us at 604-530-8569 for further info.
The Accredited Gemmologist (C.I.G.)® designation is a registered certification mark (see Industry Canada, Canadian Intellectual Property Office) and requires a user licence for business use. The annual user fee for diploma and C.I.G. Expert certificate holders is presently $100; it includes a membership in the Gem Connoisseur Club. The logo and name "Canadian Institute of Gemmology (C.I.G.)" is a registered trademark; see certificate . The designation "Fine Jewellery Expert (C.I.G.)" and "Diamond Expert (C.I.G.)" are protected certification marks.
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