Editor’s Note
As the pandemic continues to reshape how we learn and connect, the Gübelin Academy has introduced a timely online course for gem enthusiasts. This digital initiative offers a structured way to explore gemology from home, reflecting a broader shift toward accessible, specialized education in a socially distanced world.
In January 2021, the Gübelin Academy launched a new online course program titled “Coloured Gem Professional: The Basics,” aimed at gemstone enthusiasts worldwide who wish to deepen their knowledge.
The new “The Basics” program from the Gübelin Academy is specifically designed for digital use, featuring numerous videos. Experts from the company in Lucerne, Hong Kong, and New York share their knowledge online. Brief personal interviews enrich the course by providing additional information, such as one dedicated to the work of the curator who manages the collection of over 27,000 gemstones used as references within the Gübelin Gemmological Laboratory.
“The Basics” offers an introduction to the fascinating world of colored gemstones and focuses on the so-called “Big Three”: ruby, emerald, and sapphire. The online course is aimed at gemstone enthusiasts, connoisseurs, collectors, as well as jewelry experts, and conveys both scientific data and emotions.
The digital course expands the training offerings previously provided by the Academy and integrates perfectly into its modular program. Success in either the in-person course “Coloured Gem Professional: Level 1” or the online course “The Basics” qualifies participants for the Level 2 course. Thus, first-level graduates can then immerse themselves more deeply in the world of colored gemstones and continue their education.
– Raphael Gübelin, President of the House of Gübelin
Through the Academy, Gübelin shares its knowledge, as well as its “Deeply Inspired” philosophy, which involves discovering the inner and outer beauty of gemstones to understand their reality from all facets. For many participants, gemstones appear in a new light after an Academy course, and they learn more about their creation, history, and symbolism. Graduates can thus better appreciate the wonders of nature.
The “The Basics” course is taught in English and consists of four modules. Each module is validated by a test. After successfully completing all four modules, participants are awarded a Certificate. Interested individuals can register on the Gübelin Academy website. The price of the online course is CHF 236 (US$ 265); it is possible to take each of the four modules independently. No prior knowledge is required to participate. The “The Basics” program is open to all who wish to learn more about colored gemstones.
