This course introduces students to gemstones commonly used in studio and production jewellery, including quartz, feldspar, tourmaline, garnet, chalcedony, jade, turquoise and lapis lazuli. Emphasis will be on practical knowledge and how it is applied in the jewellery workshop. Students will learn basic properties of these gem materials, what makes them appropriate for some jewellery forms but not others, how to handle them safely in the jewellery workshop, and how to perform basic assessments using simple tools and techniques. They will also learn how to source reputable wholesalers, and how to discuss gem materials with customers using proper terminology.
Prerequisites
Course type
This course is offered as part of a VCC program and cannot be taken individually.
International students: Eligibility is determined at the program level. Visit the program page for international student requirements and application information.
- Origins of gems and gem materials
- Working properties of gemstones: hardness, cleavage planes, optical properties, colour, clarity, cut
- Weights and measures
- Gemstones commonly used in studio and production jewellery: quartz, feldspar, garnet, tourmaline, chalcedony, turquoise, lapis, jade and others.
- Gemstone treatments
- Synthetics
- Nomenclature
Course schedules
Select your program to see the available course schedules.
| CRN# | Duration | Delivery | Location | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40532 |
January 4, 2027 to April 16, 2027 |
Lecture | VCC Downtown Campus | See full schedule |
Online courses listed without scheduled meeting times can be completed on your own schedule. All self-paced courses have on-campus tests. Off-site certified invigilation centres may be used at the student's expense.
How to take this course
This course is offered as part of a VCC program only.
Contact us
If you have any questions, please email at [email protected].
† This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.