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FGA Diploma Study Guide

Study guide aligned with the Gem-A Diploma in Gemmology curriculum.

Course Overview

The Diploma course builds on Foundation knowledge, covering advanced topics including origin determination, advanced treatments, grading, and comprehensive gem identification.

Module 1: Advanced Physical Properties

Learning Objectives

  • Master crystal morphology
  • Understand twinning and its significance
  • Apply advanced SG techniques

Key Topics

  1. Crystal Morphology
  2. Forms and habits
  3. Miller indices

  4. Crystal growth

  5. Twinning

  6. Contact twins
  7. Penetration twins

  8. Polysynthetic twinning

  9. Advanced SG

  10. Accuracy considerations
  11. Composite stones
  12. Unusual materials

Module 2: Advanced Optical Properties

Learning Objectives

  • Understand interference figures
  • Master spectroscopy
  • Apply advanced polariscope techniques

Key Topics

  1. Interference Figures
  2. Uniaxial figures
  3. Biaxial figures

  4. Optic sign determination

  5. Advanced Spectroscopy

  6. Absorption band analysis
  7. Rare earth spectra

  8. Treatment detection

  9. Dispersion Measurement

  10. Dispersion values
  11. Fire assessment

Module 3: Origin Determination

Learning Objectives

  • Identify origin-specific inclusions
  • Understand trace element analysis
  • Apply origin criteria

Key Topics

  1. Geographic Origins
  2. Burma (Myanmar)
  3. Kashmir
  4. Colombia
  5. Sri Lanka

  6. Africa

  7. Origin Criteria

  8. Inclusion suites
  9. Growth patterns

  10. Chemical fingerprints

  11. Origin Premium

  12. Value implications
  13. Certificate requirements
  14. Market considerations

Study Resources

Module 4: Advanced Treatments

Learning Objectives

  • Detect sophisticated treatments
  • Understand beryllium diffusion
  • Identify composite stones

Key Topics

  1. Beryllium Diffusion
  2. Effects on sapphire
  3. Detection methods

  4. LA-ICP-MS analysis

  5. Lead Glass Filling

  6. Ruby treatment
  7. Detection techniques

  8. Durability concerns

  9. HPHT Treatment

  10. Diamond enhancement
  11. Type classification

  12. Detection methods

  13. Composite Stones

  14. Doublets and triplets
  15. Detection techniques
  16. Value implications

Module 5: Advanced Synthetics

Learning Objectives

  • Identify CVD and HPHT diamonds
  • Recognize advanced synthetic methods
  • Apply detection techniques

Key Topics

  1. Laboratory-Grown Diamonds
  2. CVD growth
  3. HPHT growth

  4. Detection methods

  5. Advanced Synthesis

  6. Skull melting
  7. Floating zone

  8. Crystal pulling

  9. Detection Equipment

  10. Diamond verification instruments
  11. Photoluminescence
  12. Type testing

Module 6: Grading and Valuation

Learning Objectives

  • Apply colour grading systems
  • Assess clarity accurately
  • Understand market valuation

Key Topics

  1. Colour Grading
  2. Hue, tone, saturation
  3. Master stones

  4. Lighting conditions

  5. Clarity Grading

  6. Loupe and microscope
  7. Grade criteria

  8. Position considerations

  9. Cut Assessment

  10. Proportions
  11. Symmetry

  12. Polish quality

  13. Value Factors

  14. Market trends
  15. Rarity
  16. Demand patterns

Study Resources

Module 7: Phenomenal Gems

Learning Objectives

  • Understand optical phenomena
  • Grade phenomenal effects
  • Identify treatments

Key Topics

  1. Asterism
  2. Star formation
  3. Quality factors

  4. Diffusion stars

  5. Chatoyancy

  6. Cat's eye effect
  7. Quality assessment

  8. Chrysoberyl vs. others

  9. Colour Change

  10. Alexandrite effect
  11. Measurement

  12. Simulants

  13. Other Phenomena

  14. Adularescence
  15. Labradorescence
  16. Play of colour

Study Resources

Module 8: Gem Care and Setting

Learning Objectives

  • Advise on gem durability
  • Recommend appropriate settings
  • Guide cleaning methods

Key Topics

  1. Durability Assessment
  2. Hardness considerations
  3. Cleavage risks

  4. Stability factors

  5. Setting Recommendations

  6. Protective settings
  7. Prong security

  8. Bezel appropriateness

  9. Care Guidelines

  10. Safe cleaning methods
  11. Storage recommendations
  12. Insurance considerations

Study Resources

Module 9: Advanced Species

Learning Objectives

  • Identify rare species
  • Understand collector gems
  • Recognize unusual materials

Topics Covered

  1. Rare Gems
  2. Painite
  3. Taaffeite
  4. Benitoite

  5. Grandidierite

  6. Collector Gems

  7. Sphene
  8. Andalusite

  9. Kornerupine

  10. Organic Materials

  11. Advanced pearl grading
  12. Coral identification
  13. Amber analysis

Module 10: Professional Practice

Learning Objectives

  • Prepare professional reports
  • Understand legal requirements
  • Apply ethical standards

Key Topics

  1. Report Writing
  2. Format and structure
  3. Terminology

  4. Conclusions

  5. Legal Aspects

  6. Disclosure requirements
  7. Trade descriptions

  8. Liability

  9. Ethics

  10. Professional conduct
  11. Conflicts of interest
  12. Continuing education

Exam Preparation

Theory Exam

  • Essay questions
  • Case studies
  • Advanced identification problems

Practical Exam

  • Identify 15 stones
  • Include challenging materials
  • Detailed reports required

Thesis

  • Original research topic
  • Literature review
  • Data collection and analysis

Study Tips

  1. Build comprehensive reference collection
  2. Practice report writing regularly
  3. Study challenging materials
  4. Network with professionals
  5. Stay current with trade publications