Introduction to Diamonds

This course is designed to give you an overview on each aspect of the diamond pipeline. The journey begins with the growth of diamond, and then works all the way through to retail.

A one-day workshop designed for students to put into practice the theoretical knowledge gained from the online Diamond Foundation Course. By the end of the workshop students will be able to use basic gemmological equipment to assess the core characteristics of the 4C's.

The De Beers Polished Diamond Grading Course is an in-depth study of the diamond pipeline. The course is split into two component parts. The first involves distance learning study using 11 textbooks especially designed by De Beers, each one devoted to a specific aspect of diamonds. Topics include diamond origins, physical properties, exploration, mining, cutting and polishing. Also covered is theory of polished diamond grading using the 4Cs (Carat, Colour, Clarity, and Cut). On completion of the distance learning section students then attend a 1 week laboratory experience. Here students will develop their practical grading skills under the guidance of De Beers’ experts, with a practical assessment at the end of the week.

The student will learn how De Beers Group sorts, categorises and determines the price of rough diamonds for sale to its clients. This is a very hands on experience with unique access to rough diamonds.

Undisclosed synthetics are fast becoming the biggest threat to the diamond industry. The De Beer’s Synthetic Diamond Detection Course supports their continued efforts to enhance customer confidence across the industry. Led by specialists, this 1-day course uses the best research, insight and technology available at De Beers Group, in a mix of theory and practice. Students will study a wide range of products including HPHT and CVD Synthetic Diamonds, Simulants and HPHT treated materials. They will learn techniques to highlight specific identification features and use the full suite of IIDGR screening and verification instruments.