Simply contact us by email to add your name to the program class list of your choice! Your place will be provisionally held until Jan 30, 2011
(without obligation of final enrollment).

Learn the science and technical knowledge you need to deal in the entire spectrum of diamonds and colored stones. Through extensive practice, become efficient at grading diamonds accurately and consistently. Work with a GIA instructor and gemological testing equipment to learn how to identify a broad variety of gems, including those considered unusual or challenging.

- Learn how the 4Cs (color, clarity, cut, and carat weight) affect diamond value
- Learn how to grade diamonds in the normal color range
- Learn to use gemological equipment designed to help you grade and identify hundreds of gemstones
- Learn to detect synthetics and treatments
- Learn how to describe color in gemstones
- Work with diamond simulants
- Learn how to detect fracture-filled diamonds

GIA education through GIA Florence uses the same syllabus in the USA and is administered to exactly the same high standards with experienced GIA instructors.  As a GIA Florence student you will have your own personal GIA student number and all GIA diplomas and certificates are only issued from our headoffice at GIA in Carlsbad, California. Classes for the diploma programs are held here at the school every day Monday to Friday, from 9am to 4pm.  

Diploma Program dates (English Language):
Graduate Diamonds: 9 May - 24 June, 2011
Graduate Diamonds: 24 October - 9 December, 2011
Graduate Gemologist: 25 Oct 2010 - 24 June, 2011
Graduate Gemologist: 24 October, 2011 - May 18, 2012
Graduate Colored Stones: 25 Oct 2010 - 25 March 2011
A.J.P. Intensive: 4 - 8 April, 2011

Studying in Florence, Italy
Here in Florence there is a large student community and lots of trips with student groups that are well organized and fun. All of our students love travelling around Italy and all over Europe, especially being so close to 'Baselworld', the famous 'World Watch and Jewellery Show', within easy reach by Eurostar train.  We suggest that you check out the English newspaper 'The Florentine' for ‘what’s on’ here in the city, including theatres, open air cinema's and English original language films, bars, coffee shops and swimming pools…it’s just a small introduction to Bella Italia!

Looking for information on where to stay in Florence during your course?  Visit our Housing Information pages or contact us for housing assistance and booking details.