Gemology is the scientific study of gemstones and, as such, it is a very important aspect of the jewellery industry. Gemologists are responsible for identifying and grading the gemstones, detecting possible treatments and assessing their value. Thus, the work of gemologists supports the global gemstone trade through their trustworthiness.

India is where most of the world’s gemstones and jewelry are manufactured. The country accounts for about 90% of diamond cutting and polishing done worldwide and has a workforce of more than 4.6 million people in the sector. The booming Indian gem and jewelry industry with its annual 5-6% growth rate leads to a corresponding rise in the demand for certified gemstones and transparent trade practices.

However, the large scale of production is not matched by the number of qualified gemologists in India. The increase of treated stones in the market, the rise of international quality standards, and the existence of more sophisticated consumers have rendered professional gem expertise essential across all stages of manufacturing, export, retail, and certification services.

The skilled gemologists are needed for jewelry houses, export units, gemstone trading firms, laboratories, and luxury retail, in India and worldwide. As the industry grows, the need for a constant supply of gemologists will be there and hence, supporting the education of gemology will not only be a career option but a necessary step to keeping India’s global dominance in the gemstone and jewelry industry.