Appraising diamonds and other fine jewels necessitates extensive training and education. The career path to become a diamond appraiser can take up to five years from start to finish. Furthermore, to be hired as a diamond appraiser, you must have a background that reflects a diverse range of experience.
A degree in gemology from an accredited academic institute is the first step toward a career as a diamond appraiser. This program takes several years to complete, depending on how many courses are taken per semester, and leads to a Graduate Gemologist (GG) or Fellow of the Gemological Association (FGA) degree. These designations are awarded by a number of institutes across the United States, the United Kingdom, Europe, and Asia, and both are internationally recognized. A GG or FGA program will provide education and training in the identification and grading of gemstones and diamonds. However, simply starting work as a diamond appraiser will not suffice.
It will be necessary to obtain a position working in the retail side of the jewelry industry while pursuing this diploma, which may count as credit toward an internship that several GG and FGA schools require prior to graduation. A retail position exposes you to all aspects of the diamond and jewelry industry, including construction, jewelry setting, and appraisals. Without this prior experience, many employers will not consider a candidate for diamond appraiser work.
It is critical to obtain a certified appraiser certificate during this time. The scope of work can now include fine jewels, including diamonds, thanks to this certification. To obtain this certificate, you must first join an appraisal organization and then complete the required coursework as specified by the organization. The National Association of Jewelry Appraisers (NAJA), the American Society of Appraisers (ASA), the American Gem Society (AGS), and the International Society of Appraisers are all examples of appraisal organizations (ISA).
Without a combination of appraiser certification and a degree in gemology, becoming a diamond appraiser or a fine jewel appraiser is difficult. In addition to traditional classroom instruction, many appraisal organizations and gemology programs offer distance learning coursework. Those who do not wish to pursue this career path full-time or relocate can do so with this flexibility.
Many experts in the field recommend doing an internship with a certified appraiser if you want to become a diamond appraiser. An internship like this can not only provide valuable hands-on experience, but it can also help you learn the ins and outs of the diamond and fine jewel appraisal industry. Some bench or jewelry-making knowledge, as well as a background in art and jewelry history, are also considered valuable by those in the industry.