C.I.Gem News (September 2008)

The Newsletter of the Canadian Institute of Gemmology (C.I.G.)

New Books available at Gemlab Books and Instruments

Gems of the World
by Cally Oldershaw, 256 pages, over 900 images, 2008

This new book is a practical, comprehensive guide to the identification and use of precious gems; Gems of the World is a completely up-to-date reference for gemmologists, rock hounds and general readers.

$ 35.00


To order the above book on-line visit gemlab BOOKS AND INSTRUMENTS

Visit in Tokyo

C.I.G. Director of Education Wolf Kuehn  met with Yasukazu Suwa at SUWA's new offices in Tokyo. Yasukazu is a member of the C.I.G. Advisory board and  has been involved in the study of Angolan rough diamonds. He is presently writing a book about the beauty of diamond rough and its importance before cutting. We also both share the need of more promotion for untreated gemstones.

JWK diamonds rough

Andesine Report Update

The TV andesine scandal (including "Olympic andesine") is becoming more and more interesting. COLORED STONE editor David Federman wrote another article based on the excellent work by Robert James (International School of Gemmology). Read it here. Makes one wonder where all the big laboratories have been in the last 4 years.

CIGCELEBRATING gems 1983 - 2008

Signs of the Time

Confused ? .... Why is there so much discrepancy in diamonds certificates? .... The Andesine fiasco .... Paraiba tourmalines .... Irradiated topaz .... Perhaps it is time to start some professional development. Be yourself your best judge. Gain more confidence in diamond grading and gem identification. Take one of our 100-level courses by correspondence or locally in Vancouver (see below). More info about our "Fine Jewellery Expert (C.I.G.) program here.

Vancouver C.I.G. courses and workshops - Fall 2008

Introduction to Diamonds - PLEASE REGISTER BY October 10

  • Course 130-3 (Introduction to Diamonds), Fri, October 17, 6:15 - 9:00 p.m., Sat/Sun, October 18/19, 10 a.m - 4:30 p.m. (weekend class, Vancouver)
    $ 495 includes text-book and exam fee (no GST), study materials with binder will be shipped upon registration

    In this course you will learn everything you need to know about diamonds. Sell more and answer customer questions with confidence. Introduction to diamond grading and jewellery fashion.

    Course Content: 1. Diamonds. How they are created. 2. The Beauty of Diamonds 3. Weight and Colour of Diamonds. 4. Judging the Clarity of Diamonds. 5. Judging the Cut of Diamonds. 6. Diamond or Imitation? Gold, Platinum. 7. Choosing an Appropriate Style. 8. Choosing a Diamond Ring, Judging Craftmanship.

    Pearls, Opal and Jade - PLEASE REGISTER BY October 24

  • Course 160-2 Fri, October 31, 6:15 - 9:00 p.m., Sat/Sun, November 1/2, 10 a.m - 4:30 p.m. (weekend class, Vancouver)
    $ 495 includes text-book and exam fee (no GST), study materials with binder will be shipped upon registration

    In this course you will learn about pearl types and shapes, how to judge luster, thickness, colour and size of pearls. The identification and evaluation of South Sea, black and freshwater pearls and other organic gems are also covered. There will be one session on opal and its evaluation. Another session will cover the jades - oriental jadeite and nephrite.

    For more information about Vancouver courses go here.

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    ISSN 0846-3611 GEMOLOGY CANADA - Wolf Kuehn, F.G.G., F.G.A., Editor

    The articles in CIGem News express the opinions of the editor and do not necessarily reflect those of the Canadian Institute of Gemmology (C.I.G.). The included links are provided for educational purposes. Copyright and content responsibility remains with the linked organization and do not represent any endorsement by the author.