Gemology diploma
Graduate Gemologist (GG)
GIA's full gemology diploma: Graduate Diamonds plus Graduate Colored Stones. Take it full time on campus in 26 instructional weeks, or online with three courses and three lab classes.
What you learn
- Grading diamonds D to Z with the GIA International Diamond Grading System and the 4Cs
- The GIA Colored Stone Grading System
- Identifying more than 60 gem species
- Separating natural from laboratory-grown stones
- Detecting treatments, simulants and enhancements
On campus or online
| Format | Details |
|---|---|
| On campus | 780 clock hours, 26 instructional weeks, Mon to Fri 8:00 a.m. to 2:50 p.m. PT in Carlsbad |
| Online | GEM 230, 220 and 240 online, plus three lab classes; up to six years to finish |
Federal aid applies to the on-campus GG at Carlsbad and New York for eligible U.S. citizens and permanent residents. Online courses are not federal-aid eligible.
Career paths
GIA lists roles such as appraiser, diamond buyer, colored stone buyer, auction house jewelry specialist, lab and research professional, retailer and wholesaler. GIA does not guarantee employment.
83%Carlsbad GG graduation rate
82%Carlsbad GG employment in field (ACCSC definition)
$29,862.56Carlsbad on-campus total charges, 2027 catalog
Talk to an admissions advisor
Ask Shipley anything about the GG, then request a call. Your advisor gets a summary of the conversation.