Lab Classes

Most of the fun and excitement...not to mention the fundamentals of gemology come from actually examining gems. The practical requirements of many GIA courses range from grading diamonds to identifying a variety of colored stones to separating natural stones from synthetics and simulants. GIA Distance Education is designed to give you as much time handling gems as possible.

Distance Education students working toward GIA Graduate Gemologist, Graduate Diamonds, Graduate Colored Stones, or Graduate Pearls diplomas can meet many of their requirements in Lab Classes at locations near their homes. At GIA Lab Classes Distance Education students can work with diamonds and other gemstone, use professional equipment, and benefit from individualized attention from GIA instructors.

GIA Lab Classes provide Distance Education students with the hands-on experience that's such a large component of the on campus experience. GIA Lab Classes are frequently available at GIA facilities in Carlsbad, New York, and Los Angeles, as well as an average of eight to ten additional cities around the US and Canada. Traveling Lab Classes are also held in locations throughout the world.

Lab Classes are designed to accommodate your busy schedule. Most are taught during the day, and a few take place at night. They help you master skills that are essential to your jewelry industry career in hours, days, or nights rather than weeks, months, or years.