Editor’s Note
**Editor’s Note:** The Japan Gem Society has announced the second nationwide online Gemstone Certification Exam, set for August 24, 2025. Applications for Levels 3 and 2 reopen today, May 1. The exam is accessible from home via camera-equipped devices, aiming to deepen public understanding of gemstones.
The Japan Gem Society (General Incorporated Association, headquartered in Taito-ku, Tokyo) will hold the “Second Gemstone Certification Exam” online nationwide on Sunday, August 24, 2025, to test knowledge for a deeper understanding of gemstones. Starting today, Thursday, May 1, 2025, applications for Levels 3 and 2 will reopen. The exam can be taken from anywhere in Japan using a camera-equipped PC, tablet, or smartphone at home.
Gemstones are miraculous stones nurtured by the Earth. In the “First Gemstone Certification Exam,” which covered their beauty, durability, and rarity, over 2,000 people participated. The pass rate for Level 3 was 89%, and for Level 2, it was 72%.
Top 5 Favorite Gemstones
- Diamond
- Sapphire
- Alexandrite
- Tanzanite
- Opal
98% of respondents reported acquiring meaningful knowledge about gemstones.
After the first exam, the official textbook continued to be sold, and due to numerous requests for another exam, the second edition will be held.
Groups of 5 or more can apply. Visit the group application page: https://www.kentei-uketsuke.com/sys/gemstones/group_entry
The official textbook, “Gemstone Certification Exam Level 3 & 2 Official Textbook,” provides an easy and enjoyable understanding of why gemstones are beautiful, their formation process, properties, characteristics, and processing steps, as well as atomic and crystal compositions. It covers general gemology and delves into the properties and stories of 32 specific gemstones—a must-have for mineral and gem enthusiasts.
“Gemstone Certification Exam Level 3 & 2 Official Textbook”
All-color, 210 pages
Published by: Japan Gem Society
Printed version price: 3,200 yen (tax included)
Online textbook price: 2,500 yen (tax included)
Q. When light hits a cabochon-cut gemstone, a single band of light resembling a cat’s eye appears. What is this phenomenon called? Choose one from 1 to 4 below.
- Color Change (Alexandrite Effect)
- Chatoyancy (Cat’s Eye Effect)
- Asterism (Star Effect)
- Play of Color (Opalescence)
- Organizer: Japan Gem Society
- Operator: Nippan Segumo Co., Ltd.
- Exam Date: Sunday, August 24, 2025
- Application Deadline: Convenience store payment: by Tuesday, August 5, 2025; Credit card payment: by Tuesday, August 12, 2025, 17:00
- Exam Format: Online (camera-equipped PC, smartphone, or tablet)
- Levels:
- Level 3: Basic level covering fundamental knowledge of gemstone types and characteristics. Exam time: 60 minutes, 100 questions.
- Level 2: Intermediate level covering broad knowledge including gemstone origins, formation, and color secrets, enabling deeper exploration of gemstone appeal. Exam time: 60 minutes, 100 questions.
- Exam Fees: Level 3: 5,500 yen (tax incl.); Level 2: 7,700 yen (tax incl.); Combined Level 3 & 2: 12,100 yen (tax incl.)
- Official Website: https://www.kentei-uketsuke.com/gemstones
The Gemstone Certification Exam will be exhibited at “TOKYO JEWELRY FES ’25 Summer” held at Tokyo Big Sight from Friday, August 1 to Sunday, August 3, 2025. Details will be announced on the official website.
Answer to Sample Question: 2. Chatoyancy (Cat’s Eye Effect)
When light hits a cabochon-cut gemstone, a single band of light appears, known as chatoyancy.
Contact:
Japan Gem Society
Tel: 03-5812-4785
Fax: 03-5812-4786
Hours: Monday to Friday (excluding holidays, year-end/New Year, and summer break) 10:00–17:00