Education

Graduate Pearls Program

Graduate Pearl Hero

The Graduate Pearls diploma program provides the product knowledge and grading skills to effectively buy inventory and build confidence when buying and selling Akoya, South Sea, Tahitian and freshwater pearls. You will be taught GIA’s 7 Pearl Value Factors™: size, shape, color, luster, surface quality, nacre quality and matching – the essential criteria for assessing the value and beauty of pearls. Topics covered include post-harvest treatments, imitation pearls and pearl testing.

What You’ll Earn: GIA Graduate Pearls Diploma

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

  • Evaluate and grade cultured pearls based on GIA’s 7 Pearl Value Factors
  • Identify “other” pearl types found in the marketplace
  • Describe common pearl treatments
  • Explain the differences between natural and cultured pearls
  • Explain the process of pearl culturing and marketing
  • Describe the components of the GIA Pearl Report(s)
  • Describe the relationship of beauty, value, and quality

POSSIBLE CAREER PATHS

  • Pearl Grader
  • Pearl Assorter
  • Jewelry Business Owner
  • Jewelry Sales Professional
  • Pearl Buyer
  • Retailer
  • Wholesaler
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