What is a gemologist, graduate gemologist or certified gemologist?

The words Gemologist or Graduate Gemologist represent diplomas from the Gemological Institute of America. They are not titles. It means people have passed the correct tests to receive the diploma. While the course is full of good information it does not in itself confer any level of competence. After all, a law degree does not make a lawyer. Not only must the lawyer pass the bar but you would like to know what kind of experience that person has and what they've done during their professional lives. For instance, the portion about diamonds only requires you grade about 10 stones. That gives you an idea of how you should grade but there is a whole lot more to it. To be a good diamond grader you need to take the course and grade hundreds of diamonds over some years. The words Certified Gemologist and Certified Gemologist Appraiser are awarded by the American Gem Society and are the highest titles available in the profession and represent years of experience. Like the lawyer example ...  more