Advance your expertise in gemmology and jewellery design with our comprehensive two-day course. Developed for jewellery makers, designers and enthusiasts, this immersive weekend course provides essential skills and knowledge for selecting and working with gemstones in jewellery settings and designs. Each session is packed with essential knowledge, hands-on activities, and insightful discussions, ensuring a rich and engaging learning experience.
Why Attend:
- Gain practical knowledge and skills in gemmology
- Learn from a highly qualified gemmologist with more than 20 years teaching experience
- Enhance your jewellery designing and purchasing decisions
- Meet and network with fellow enthusiasts and professionals
Who Should Attend:
- Jewellery Manufacturers and Designers
- Wearers and Enthusiasts of Gemstone Jewellery
- Anyone interested in learning about gemstones and their authenticity
- Beginners with no prior gemmological knowledge
Key Features of the Course:
- Practical Hands-on Learning – Work with real gemstones & essential tools.
- Expert-Led Training – Learn from a highly qualified gemologist with 20+ years of experience.
- Small Group Setting – Get personalised guidance with only 9 participants.
- Essential Equipment Provided – No need to bring specialised tools.
- Certificate of Completion – Enhance your credentials in gemmology.
Meet your Tutor:
- Kate Hopley is a graduate of the prestigious Birmingham School of Jewellery and has over 20 years teaching experience. Kate is a highly qualified Gemmologist, she is a Fellow of the Gemmological Association (Gem A) of Great Britain, a holder of the Gem- A’s Gemmology Diploma (FGA) and Diamond Diploma (DGA), and a Graduate Gemmologist (GG) of the Gemmological Institute of America (GIA). Kate runs one of only two UK based Gem-A ATC’s (Accredited Teaching Centres) for Gem-A. She is also one of the GEM-A’s accredited correspondence learning tutors. Kate specialises in the training of students to FGA and DGA level, with GEM-A world awards regularly being attained by Kate’s students who work in the jewellery industry or who are interested or enthusiastic about gemstones.
Course Content:
Day 1: Gems in Jewellery:
- Learn how to choose the right gemstones for your jewellery designs by understanding key factors such as hardness, cut, inclusions, and colour. Discover how these attributes impact durability, aesthetics, and value. Engage in hands-on training and expert-led discussions to address your own gem-setting questions and challenges.
Day 2: Gem or Glass?
- Learn how to confidently distinguish genuine gemstones from
imitations in this hands-on course. Designed for those who buy or work with gems, you’ll gain practical experience using essential gemmological tools like the 10x lens, spectroscope, dichroscope, and Chelsea Colour Filter (CCF). While not a full gemmology certification, this course equips you with key skills to identify genuine gemstones, recognise red flags, and make informed buying decisions—an invaluable asset for jewellers, designers, and gemstone enthusiasts alike.
Course Specs:
- Date: March 22-23, 2025
- Registration deadline: 15th March
- Time: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Venue: DCCIA, Sessions House, Thomastown
- Number of participants: 9
- Fee: €385
Upskill and learn with DCCI Academy
DCCI Academy is a specialised academy for education, training and apprenticeships. We welcome everyone, from design and craft beginners, to established professionals.
Learn more