George Brown Polytechnic is located on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and other Indigenous peoples who have lived here over time. We are grateful to share this land as treaty people who learn, work and live in the community with each other.
Gemmology
(F105)
Program Details
- Program Code: F105
- Credential: Ontario College Certificate
- Duration: 1 year (2 semesters)
- Method of Study: Full-time
- Starting Months: September
- Domestic Tuition: $4,808.00 * +
- International Tuition: $19,350.00 ** +
- Spring 2026 Delivery: Not Available
Program Availability
| Semester | Domestic | International |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2025 | Suspended | Suspended |
| Winter 2026 | Not Available | Not Available |
| Spring 2026 | Not Available | Not Available |
- PGWP Eligible: No
Program Description
Leadership Claims
This is the only full-time gemmology certificate program at an Ontario college.
Program Overview
In our one-year Gemmology certificate program, you'll learn to analyze and classify a wide variety of gem materials and diamonds used in jewellery, both natural and synthetic. You'll delve into the chemical and physical attributes of gems, learning to differentiate between various types using instruments like microscopes, spectroscopes, refractometers and polariscopes. This knowledge will allow you to classify and appraise gem materials based on their desirable characteristics, ultimately determining their value.
Full Description
In the Gemmology one-year certificate program, you will embark on a comprehensive exploration of gemstone analysis and classification. Through hands-on learning and using a variety of instruments and testing equipment, you will learn to identify an array of gemstones, including diamonds, and differentiate them from natural, synthetics and imitations.
Students can grade gemstones based on their cut, colour, physical attributes, chemical composition and place of origin. Specifically, students will learn to grade diamonds considering their cut, clarity, colour and carat weight.
Beyond gemstone assessment, students will learn fundamental skills in jewellery appraisal. You will learn to contextualize jewellery pieces based on historical and stylistic properties, assessing their provenance, materials and production methods.
George Brown Polytechnic’s fully equipped jewellery studio puts industry-leading tools and technology right at your fingertips. From bench-mounted flex shafts and precision torches to rolling mills, and casting equipment, our state-of-the-art workstations mirror professional studios. Students learn hands-on, using the same tools as expert jewellers—right from day one. It is a bona fide academic requirement that students pursuing Jewellery and Gemology Programming at George Brown Polytechnic must use the jewellery and gemmology lab and studio spaces on campus to complete all studio-based assignments and projects. This is key to student success and to learning in a safe studio environment.
Please note:
- Refractive Index liquid (RI liquid), which contains diiodomethane, is a commonly used chemical in gemmology practice. If you are pregnant, have certain medical conditions or are sensitive to RI liquid, please consult with your physician for advice before you attend this program, as you will be exposed to RI liquid in gemmology lab work.
Program Requirements
- You will need access to a personal laptop or desktop computer and reliable Internet access for synchronous classes.
- You will be given a list of textbooks required to purchase after registration.
- George Brown Polytechnic is committed to maintaining a safe learning environment and is compliant with Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) standards. As part of this commitment, students enrolled in this program are required to wear approved respiratory protection during designated activities. Compliance with this requirement is mandatory for participation in the program.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Industry
The gemmology industry collaborates with many sectors, such as:
- retail trade
- repair
- wholesale
- jewellery manufacturing
- mining
- appraisal
- auction houses
Educational Pathways
Opportunities to receive transfer credits toward further study to attain a degree in Jewellery and Gemmology are available.
Some credits may be considered for transfer to other jewellery programs. Graduates with both jewellery and gemmology education have a significant advantage in the workplace.
Alumni Impact
We are immensely proud of the contributions of our alumni in Toronto and around the globe.
From Michelin-starred restaurants to major construction, entertainment, community and financial organizations, our graduates are truly making an impact across a range of industries.
Courses
Semester 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMM 2000 | Communicating Across Contexts* |
| JEWL 1005 | Gemmology 1 |
| JEWL 1047 | Jewellery as an Industry** |
| JEWL 1072 | Science for Gemmology |
| JEWL 1083 | History of Jewellery and Gemstones** |
Semester 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| JEWL 1006 | Jewellery Appraisal |
| JEWL 1008 | Diamond Grading |
| JEWL 1079 | Gemmology 2 |
*Based on the results of your placement test, you may be required to take COMM 1000 Introduction to College Communication before progressing to COMM 2000. COMM 1000 does not count as a course required for graduation, and you will be charged for this extra course.
**Course common with other GBC programs.
Course Outline URL
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Identify a large number of gemstones and gem materials and distinguish them from synthetics and imitations.
- Use, maintain and handle gemmological instruments and testing equipment competently and safely.
- Grade gemstones for quality based on their cut, colour and other physical characteristics, chemical composition and possible place of origin.
- Grade diamonds based on their cut, clarity, colour and carat weight.
- Apply the basic skills of jewellery appraisal to assess market value.
- Contextualize jewellery according to historical and stylistic qualities to assess provenance, materials and method of production.
- Conduct ethical and secure business practices consistent with jewellery business standards.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
$4,808.00 * +
International Tuition
$19,350.00 ** +
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2024. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2025 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2025. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
+ Books and additional supplies are not included in tuition fees and must be purchased by the student separately.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid web pages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
Basic computer literacy and skill level in Word and Excel are recommended.
** Mature Student Status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit the Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
Special Requirements
Visual acuity and accurate colour rendition are essential traits for success in gemmology.
Chemical Safety Disclosure
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends the use of good laboratory practices while using or being exposed to refractive index (RI) liquid, which contains diiodomethane. You will use RI liquid when using a refractometer, which you will come in contact with directly or indirectly in various courses. You may need to exercise special precautions if you are pregnant, if you have certain medical conditions and if you have sensitivity to, or are allergic to, this chemical. If you are unsure, contact your physician for advice. Students are required to wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment when necessary.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown Polytechnic Online Application System.
Contact Us
School of Design
Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 4840
Email: fashionandjewellery@georgebrown.ca
International Students
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
Our Jewellery programs are part of our School of Design and classes take place at our Casa Loma Campus, located at 160 Kendal Ave., Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Open House sessions are available. Come and have your questions answered. Learn about the program content and career options, meet your friendly professors and staff and experience what it is like to be in a George Brown Polytechnic classroom.
Campus tours are offered on a regular basis. Sign up for a campus tour today! You can also check out our virtual tour.
Program Description
Leadership Claims
This is the only full-time gemmology certificate program at an Ontario college.
Program Overview
In our one-year Gemmology certificate program, you'll learn to analyze and classify a wide variety of gem materials and diamonds used in jewellery, both natural and synthetic. You'll delve into the chemical and physical attributes of gems, learning to differentiate between various types using instruments like microscopes, spectroscopes, refractometers and polariscopes. This knowledge will allow you to classify and appraise gem materials based on their desirable characteristics, ultimately determining their value.
Full Description
In the Gemmology one-year certificate program, you will embark on a comprehensive exploration of gemstone analysis and classification. Through hands-on learning and using a variety of instruments and testing equipment, you will learn to identify an array of gemstones, including diamonds, and differentiate them from natural, synthetics and imitations.
Students can grade gemstones based on their cut, colour, physical attributes, chemical composition and place of origin. Specifically, students will learn to grade diamonds considering their cut, clarity, colour and carat weight.
Beyond gemstone assessment, students will learn fundamental skills in jewellery appraisal. You will learn to contextualize jewellery pieces based on historical and stylistic properties, assessing their provenance, materials and production methods.
George Brown Polytechnic’s fully equipped jewellery studio puts industry-leading tools and technology right at your fingertips. From bench-mounted flex shafts and precision torches to rolling mills, and casting equipment, our state-of-the-art workstations mirror professional studios. Students learn hands-on, using the same tools as expert jewellers—right from day one. It is a bona fide academic requirement that students pursuing Jewellery and Gemology Programming at George Brown Polytechnic must use the jewellery and gemmology lab and studio spaces on campus to complete all studio-based assignments and projects. This is key to student success and to learning in a safe studio environment.
Please note:
- Refractive Index liquid (RI liquid), which contains diiodomethane, is a commonly used chemical in gemmology practice. If you are pregnant, have certain medical conditions or are sensitive to RI liquid, please consult with your physician for advice before you attend this program, as you will be exposed to RI liquid in gemmology lab work.
Program Requirements
- You will need access to a personal laptop or desktop computer and reliable Internet access for synchronous classes.
- You will be given a list of textbooks required to purchase after registration.
- George Brown Polytechnic is committed to maintaining a safe learning environment and is compliant with Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) standards. As part of this commitment, students enrolled in this program are required to wear approved respiratory protection during designated activities. Compliance with this requirement is mandatory for participation in the program.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Industry
The gemmology industry collaborates with many sectors, such as:
- retail trade
- repair
- wholesale
- jewellery manufacturing
- mining
- appraisal
- auction houses
Educational Pathways
Opportunities to receive transfer credits toward further study to attain a degree in Jewellery and Gemmology are available.
Some credits may be considered for transfer to other jewellery programs. Graduates with both jewellery and gemmology education have a significant advantage in the workplace.
Alumni Impact
We are immensely proud of the contributions of our alumni in Toronto and around the globe.
From Michelin-starred restaurants to major construction, entertainment, community and financial organizations, our graduates are truly making an impact across a range of industries.
Courses
Semester 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMM 2000 | Communicating Across Contexts* |
| JEWL 1005 | Gemmology 1 |
| JEWL 1047 | Jewellery as an Industry** |
| JEWL 1072 | Science for Gemmology |
| JEWL 1083 | History of Jewellery and Gemstones** |
Semester 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| JEWL 1006 | Jewellery Appraisal |
| JEWL 1008 | Diamond Grading |
| JEWL 1079 | Gemmology 2 |
*Based on the results of your placement test, you may be required to take COMM 1000 Introduction to College Communication before progressing to COMM 2000. COMM 1000 does not count as a course required for graduation, and you will be charged for this extra course.
**Course common with other GBC programs.
Course Outline URL
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
$4,808.00 * +
International Tuition
$19,350.00 ** +
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2024. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2025 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2025. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
+ Books and additional supplies are not included in tuition fees and must be purchased by the student separately.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid web pages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
Basic computer literacy and skill level in Word and Excel are recommended.
** Mature Student Status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit the Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
Special Requirements
Visual acuity and accurate colour rendition are essential traits for success in gemmology.
Chemical Safety Disclosure
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends the use of good laboratory practices while using or being exposed to refractive index (RI) liquid, which contains diiodomethane. You will use RI liquid when using a refractometer, which you will come in contact with directly or indirectly in various courses. You may need to exercise special precautions if you are pregnant, if you have certain medical conditions and if you have sensitivity to, or are allergic to, this chemical. If you are unsure, contact your physician for advice. Students are required to wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment when necessary.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown Polytechnic Online Application System.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Identify a large number of gemstones and gem materials and distinguish them from synthetics and imitations.
- Use, maintain and handle gemmological instruments and testing equipment competently and safely.
- Grade gemstones for quality based on their cut, colour and other physical characteristics, chemical composition and possible place of origin.
- Grade diamonds based on their cut, clarity, colour and carat weight.
- Apply the basic skills of jewellery appraisal to assess market value.
- Contextualize jewellery according to historical and stylistic qualities to assess provenance, materials and method of production.
- Conduct ethical and secure business practices consistent with jewellery business standards.
Contact Us
School of Design
Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 4840
Email: fashionandjewellery@georgebrown.ca
International Students
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
Our Jewellery programs are part of our School of Design and classes take place at our Casa Loma Campus, located at 160 Kendal Ave., Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Open House sessions are available. Come and have your questions answered. Learn about the program content and career options, meet your friendly professors and staff and experience what it is like to be in a George Brown Polytechnic classroom.
Campus tours are offered on a regular basis. Sign up for a campus tour today! You can also check out our virtual tour.
Visit Casa Loma Campus
Book campus tour
"As an older student, after having launched and sold a fintech start-up as well as having raised four daughters, I was looking to rekindle my lifetime passion for Jewellery, gemstones and artistic design. George Brown Polytechnic and its Jewellery Arts program as well as its Gemmology program turned out to be the ideal place for the next step in my lifecycle. It gave me the necessary tools, the critical connections and the nurturing environment to create, experiment and grow. But best of all were the passionate and caring people I met over those wonderful years as a returning student."
Edna I. Milevsky
Ontario College Certificate
Visit Casa Loma Campus
Our Virtual Tour showcases the following areas:
- Campus Facilities
- Student Services
- Applied Learning Environments
- Labs & Classrooms