GIA GG study guide
GIA GG · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The GIA Graduate Gemologist (GG) diploma is a gemological credential offered through the Gemological Institute of America, a nonprofit organization whose public site describes its work across gem encyclopedia content, analysis and grading services, education, alumni programs, and research and news. Candidates typically pursue the GG to build a working foundation in describing, grading, and identifying gemstones and jewelry for careers in retail, buying, appraisal support, laboratory intake, or estate and auction work. The GIA GG study guide has 5 sections and about 2,102 words.
01Diamond Essentials and Diamond Grading
Diamond Essentials and Diamond Grading covers diamond formation and properties plus the GIA 4Cs system: color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. Expect questions on grading conditions, clarity characteristics, proportion terminology, fluorescence, and disclosure of treatments and laboratory-grown origin.
480 words, about 2 min02Colored Stone Essentials and Colored Stone Grading
Colored Stone Essentials and Colored Stone Grading tests how GIA describes and grades colored stones: hue, tone, saturation, clarity type, cut, phenomena, and treatment disclosure. It also tests major gem groups and market terminology, but not diamond-style cut grades.
451 words, about 2 min03Gem Identification
Gem Identification tests instrument use and the optical, physical, and chemical clues that separate species, natural from synthetic, and treated from untreated stones. Refractometer: gives RI and, for anisotropic stones, birefringence (highest minus lowest RI).
378 words, about 2 min04Pearls and Pearl Grading
Pearls and Pearl Grading tests pearl formation, cultured versus natural origin, saltwater and freshwater types, the GIA value factors, imitations, treatments, and care. GIA evaluates pearls by seven value factors: size, shape, color, luster, surface quality, nacre quality, and matching.
387 words, about 2 min05Jewelry Essentials and Sales
Jewelry Essentials and Sales tests metals and their markings, manufacturing and setting methods, care and repair limits, and ethical, customer-focused sales technique. Gold purity: 24k = 100% gold; 18k = 75% (750); 14k = 58.3% (585); 10k = 41.7% (417).
406 words, about 2 min