Editor’s Note
This article has been updated to reflect that GIA’s no-charge offer for Essentials classes is now closed due to high demand.

CARLSBAD, Calif. – May 5, 2020 – As the global gem and jewelry industry navigates through the COVID-19 pandemic, the GIA is making access to its introductory courses easier than ever before. From May 4, 2020 through June 29, 2020, the GIA Essentials online courses in diamonds, colored stones and jewelry will be available at no cost for first-time enrollments.
For additional details and to apply, visit GIA.edu/elearning-offer.
This limited time opportunity teaches the fundamentals needed for a profession in gems and jewelry. By completing the three GIA Essentials eLearning courses, students may earn the GIA Applied Jewelry Professional™ (AJP) diploma. Eligible courses include Jewelry Essentials (GEM 110), Colored Stone Essentials (GEM 120) and Diamond Essentials (GEM 130).
The Essentials courses are entirely online and allow students to work at their own pace within the three-month maximum completion period for each course. These courses are required for many other GIA credential programs. No prior experience or gemological equipment is necessary for these courses.