Speaker: David Bellamy. Topic: It's Easy Being Green. Explore green gems, including precious and semi-precious, idiochromatic, allochromatic and pseudochromatic gems, as well as terrestrial and extraterrestrial varieties. Open to all.

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Free

Event

Talking Pearls

Sat, 26 Sept

This 5-hour course delves into the enchanting beauty of pearls, their subtle glow, timeless appeal and natural mystique. As June's birthstone and one of the ocean's most treasured gifts, pearls offer a fascinating gateway into gemmology and jewellery artistry.

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Free

Event

Ancaster Gem, Mineral, Bead & Jewellery Show

Sat, 3 Oct

This relatively new show was first held in 2009 and features gem and mineral dealers, guest speakers, hobby classes, and a school-children's program. The CGA offers complimentary gem identification, and usually a short free workshop.

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Free

Event

Talking Opals

Sat, 3 Oct

This 5-hour course explores the luminous world of opals, their mesmerizing play-of-colour and timeless allure. As October's birthstone and one of nature's most unique gems, opals offer an exciting lens into gemmology. Designed for curious learners and jewellery lovers alike.

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Free

Event

Pearl and Bead Stringing

Sat, 17 Oct

In this 5-hour course, participants learn the art of pearl stringing, from selecting and preparing materials to creating a professional-quality finished piece.

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Free

Event

Talking Diamonds

Sat, 7 Nov

This 5-hour course provides practical, easy-to-understand information about diamonds. It is intended for anyone interested in learning more about these fascinating gems. Topics include diamond formation, physical and optical properties, and the process of cutting, faceting and polishing diamonds.

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Free

Event

Intro To Gem Identification

Sat, 14 Nov

This 10-hour, 2-day, hands-on course focuses on gem identification. Building on the visual inspection skills acquired in Gem Appreciation, participants investigate physical and optical properties that help identify natural, synthetic and imitation gems. Small, simple pocket instruments are used.

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Free

Event

Understanding Diamond Imitations

Sat, 21 Nov

This 10-hour, 2-day course helps students recognize the physical and optical properties of diamonds and diamond imitations. Gemmological instruments are used to distinguish between imitations such as cubic zirconia, synthetic moissanite, zircon and synthetic materials.

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Free

Event

Gem Appreciation

Sat, 28 Nov

This 5-hour course explores the nature of gemstones and their timeless allure, and investigates why it is more important than ever to know a little before buying. Birthstones are generally the most highly recognized of the gems on the market today.

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About

Hours and details

The Canadian Gemmological Association provides gemmology education, professional programs and advanced courses for jewellery and gemstone enthusiasts and industry professionals. It also offers membership, fellowship exams, events and access to a network of gemmological experts.

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