The Gem and Jewellery Institute Of Sri Lanka(GJI) a leading training institute and a non-profit organization is introducing a gem identification course. This course will also include practical sessions on identification of gemstones, which will be very useful to gem merchants, designers and retailers.
In Sri Lanka there is a lack of high quality programs on gemstone identification that is relevant to the individuals who are already in the trade.
The course will cover a wide range of gemological including, natural gemstones, synthetic gemstones and imitation. This course comprising of 80 hours (5 months) of training inclusive of practical secessions. Students will also be trained on handling of gemological instruments such as a 10x loop, microscope, dichroscope, polariscope and spectroscopes.
The course will be coordinated by Mr Dayasagara Kalupahana, a gemologist with over 15years of teaching experience. He is presently the Valuer at the National Gem and Jewellery Authority (NGJA). His qualification include MSc in Gemmology (University of Peradeniya). His past experience include teaching at the Maradana Technical College and at the Gem and Jewellery Research and Training Institute.
GJI is currently accepting registrations for the next intake in June 2009.
Here is their contact information: Gem and Jewellery Institute, 292, 2/1, Galle Road, Colombo 4. Tel 011 25 00 9 44. gjisl@sltnet.lk
Scholarships by the National Gem and Jewellery Authority are also available for students who cannot afford the course, but will be given on a case by case basis taking into consideration of the individuals role in the gem and jewellery sector.
Other courses offered by the GJI include lapidary training, technical drawing, advanced jewellery stone setting and electroplating
