We reserve the right to alter course dates and times, prices and details if necessary. All courses offered on-site at 1767 Avenue Rd., Toronto, Ontario. This course focuses on the appraisal process, not the identification of gemstones. Practical work will include the appraisal of a number of items under the guidance of the instructor. All necessary major equipment is provided, but students should supply their own pocket instruments.
Class size is limited.
The primary focus of this workshop is on the stature and occurrence of inclusions within the various synthetics. Since method of crystal growth impacts the range of inclusions in synthetic gems, an overview of the flame fusion, flux, hydrothermal and Czochralski crystal growing technique will be given. In this 10 hour presentation new developments in gem synthesis such as the Douros ruby will also be discussed. Participants will have a chance to practice the various techniques and tips provided for distinguishing naturals from synthetics using gemmological microscopes. Emeralds, sapphires, rubies and diamonds are valuable gems for which many simulants and synthetic counterparts exist, and which are frequently enhanced.