Gemology: A booming career in 2022
and beyond
‘Gemstones are one of the precious gifts by nature’. The jewels and adornments created from the
gemstones not only enhance the style statement but also showcase the power, prosperity, and glory of
the person owning it. Gemology is an important field in the gems and jewellery industry that involves
identifying, studying, grading, and valuing precious gems. Gems and jewellery have been a part of
India’s culture since time immemorial. There is a huge demand for India’s Gems and jewels all over the
world. India’s gems and jewellery sector is one of the largest in the world, contributing 29 per cent to
global jewellery consumption. The market size is expected to grow by US$103.06 billion during 2019-
2023.
As per Gem Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC),
The overall gross exports of Gems & Jewelry at US$ 3288.32 million (Rs. 24239.81 crores) in the month
of AUG 2021 is showing a growth of 93.77 % (91.49% in Rs. term) as compared to US$ 1696.98 million
(Rs. 12658.65 crores) for the same period the previous year.
Not to forget,
The pandemic caused by Covid-19 has spared none. There was a huge impact on the Gems and
Jewelry industry too. After witnessing a drop in exports in 2019, India rose again.
India’s Gem & Jewelry Exports Rise by 9% to Rs. 46414.38 Cr in April-May 2021 versus April-May 2019
With a strong root of culture and a rising demand all over the world, we can assure Gemology as a
booming career in 2022 and beyond.
In the shining world of gems, identifying a gem to creating a beautiful product out of it, many creative
brains are involved. Gemologist refer to the proper identification, grading, and valuation of the
different gemstones depending on their various properties.
Careers in Gemology
As mentioned above, gemology is a science of studying, cutting, and valuing precious stones- natural
and man-made. Gemology is an umbrella term and can open a lot of doors to enhance your career.
Learning Gemology can offer you numerous roles. To name a few,
Valuer/Appraiser: Appraisers are professionals who evaluate gemstones, antique, contemporary
jewellery, and fine watches.
Lab and Research Professional: Professionals who investigate new gem finds, treatment processes, and
detection methods in the field and laboratory.
Designer: Those who create unique jewellery designs using precious gemstones.
Auction Gemologists: Professionals responsible for buying and selling during the auction or dealing
with gems and jewellery pieces on the block.
Bench Jeweler/Gemstone Jeweler: Professionals who manufacture and repair fine jewellery.
Buyer: Responsible for selling the gems and finished jewellery pieces profitably by understanding the
current industry trends.
Retailer: The one who sells the end product to the customer. There is a huge demand for retailers in
the jewellery market.
Wholesaler: Those who Import and sell diamonds, coloured stones, cultured pearls, finished jewellery,
and watches around the world.
Employment opportunities:
The growing demand for the jewellery of precious stones has increased employment opportunities.
● Jewellery Business Management
● Gem Testing Laboratories
● Retail Jewellery Business
● Jewellery Manufacturing
● Mining Industry
● Product Development Departments
● Art Auction Houses
● Gem Exporting Companies
● Top-Notch Goldsmiths
● Jewellery & Shops and Showrooms
● Industries Manufacturing Synthetic or Artificial Gems
How to Start a Career in Gemology?
If you are a gem enthusiast and want to take a step into the colourful and precious world of the gems
industry, taking professional training and certification is an ideal choice. There are many prestigious
institutions that provide top-notch training and make you industry-ready. One such institution is the
International Institute of Gemology. The IIG is one of the pioneers in the diamonds, gems, and jewellery
education program and has given more than 1,00000 professionals to the industry. There are a wide
variety of certifications based on candidates’ interests. The professional training and certification from
IIG will enhance your knowledge and expertise in Gemology.
Eligibility Criteria
There are no such prerequisites to pursue Gemology courses. Interest in the field of gems and jewellery
and business sense can be an added advantage to pursuing Gemology.
Courses
IIG offers numerous courses to make you industry-ready.
Ruby – Sapphire – Emerald, The Big 3
Navratnam – 9 Precious Gemstones
With the above-mentioned list of courses, you can easily kick-start your career in gemology.
Demand and Scope for gemologists in South India
South India is a huge consumer of Gems and Jewelry. Gems and Jewelry are considered an asset in
every household. According to reports, South India accounts for 60 per cent of the Indian gems and
jewellery market ( over Rs 90,000 crore). With the rising demand for gems and jewellery, there is a
huge demand for Gemologists too.
According to TechSci report on India Gems and Jewelry Market,
‘South India to Lead India Gems and Jewelry Market through 2025’
The reports also stated that,
‘Demand for gems and jewellery in India is predominantly concentrated in the southern region. South
India gems and jewellery market is likely to register growth over the course of the next five years, primarily owing to the presence of a large number of market players and aggressive marketing strategies adopted by companies.’
With the above data, we can say that there is a huge demand for gemologists in South India. IIG, Bangalore offers great opportunities for aspiring gemologists with a wide range of courses.
How much can a Gemologists Earn?
According to Payscale.com,
The annual salary of gemologists in India ranges from ₹252k to ₹5m. Based on experience and skills acquired, gemologists can get huge pay and can result in a promising career.
Conclusion
With the above-mentioned facts and figures, we can conclude that Gemology is a booming career in 2022 and beyond. To get certified in Gemology and other related courses, get enrolled in the International Institute of Gemology widely spread all over India. IIG is located in Mumbai, Surat, Ahmedabad, Kolkata Bengaluru.For more information Call +91 93222 62357 or +91 22 – 4971 7444. You can also mail at info@iigindia.com