ASA to Offer Advanced Gemological Training

RESTON, Va. - Feb. 20, 2015 - PRLog -- The American Society of Appraisers (ASA) to offer advanced gemological training for gems and jewelry professionals.

The first of two courses,"GJ209b: Masters Class Recognizing Treated Gems and Origin Issues,"(http://www.appraisers.org/Education/View-Class?ClassID=333) will be offered May 16-17, 2015 in Chicago, IL. The course was developed exclusively for ASA by Dr. Cigdem Lule, PhD in collaboration with Christopher Smith, President of American Gemological Laboratories (AGL), NY. Dr. Lule will be the primary presenter with Mr. Christopher Smith providing scientific support and teaching the “Country of Origin” focused portion of the program.

The course will cover the most commonly encountered gem treatments in the most commercially important gemstones species, and will also provide attendees with current information about country of origin issues, including how geologic formation influences treatment options as well the market impact of country of origin.

The second course,"GJ209a: Masters Class Diamond Grading Update," (http://www.appraisers.org/Education/View-Class?ClassID=3332) which was developed by GIA, will be offered to members only May 21-22 in New York, NY. Instruction will be provided at GIA’s new campus located at the International Gem Tower in the heart of the Diamond District.

The course will cover clarity and color grading techniques employed in the GIA laboratories, followed by hands-on; mounted diamond grading considerations; identification of diamond treatments and synthetics.

“ASA continues with its efforts to offer advanced gemological training”, says Teri Brossmer, a Glendora, CA based gemological and valuation expert who holds ASA, MGA, and G.G (GIA) designations. As education chair for the society’s gems and jewelry discipline, Brossmer adds “professional jewelry appraisers will benefit tremendously from the hands-on nature of these courses.”

Tuition for each class is $995 for ASA members and $1,095 for non-members. Classes are expected to sell out. Individuals wishing to be placed on a waiting list may e-mail asainfo@appraisers.org or call (800) 272-8258.

To register or for more information visit www.appraisers.org or call (800) 272-8258.