An introduction to diamonds

Look at the different types of diamonds on the market. Learn about the mining, cutting and grading/pricing of diamonds plus available simulants. No experience is needed.

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Key course information

Date
29/10/11

Day(s)
Sat

Duration
1 week

Time
10:30 - 16:30

Fees
Full fee: £64^NC

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
VV984

Availability
This course has finished

^NC: No concessionary fees available as there is no government funding for this course.

This course has finished

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Still got questions?
visualarts@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2700

Course outline

What is the course about?

The course will give students an insight into the trade in diamonds and the different types of diamond that are available on the market. It will also detail the diamond simulants that are commonly found and students will be taught how to assess diamonds. There will be images of diamonds and diamond-set jewellery for students to view.

What topics will we cover?

The course will cover the mining, the cutting, the grading/pricing of diamonds and their certification.
The topics will include the economics of diamonds including the structure of de Beers and the diamond-producing countries.

We will also look at the common diamond simulants that can be found in jewellery.

Students will be taught how to use a loupe and the assessment criteria of a diamond.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

- Use a loupe to look at stones.
- Understand how the diamond industry operates.
- Understand the grading and pricing of diamonds and know the certifying bodies.
- Be aware of the different diamond simulants that are on the market.
- Know the common cuts of diamonds and how cutting has developed over the last century.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

The course is at beginner’s level and no experience is necessary.
It is ideal for people who have an interest in diamonds and diamond-set jewellery and would be a good ‘refresher’ for people who work in the jewellery trade.

You should be able to follow simple written and verbal instructions to support demonstrations, handouts and for health and safety information, and will be able to take part in group discussions.

Please look at the rest of the course outline carefully to decide if you may benefit from support in your English and Maths skills to help you to take part fully in this class.

Please look at the rest of the course outline carefully to decide if you may benefit from support in your English and Maths skills to help you to take part fully in this class.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

The course will take the form of a talk with many images and samples being shown to the students to illustrate the different topics. There will be plenty of time for students to ask questions. There will be detailed hand-outs for the students to take away.
There is no work outside of the class.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

No.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Advice on other jewellery courses at City Lit is available from your jewellery tutor and by phoning Visual Arts on 020 7492 2700.

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2700

visualarts@citylit.ac.uk

Please email us for advice or call us during these times:

Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays - 9.00 -12.00 & 15:00-18:00

Thursdays - 9.00-12.00

Saturdays - 14.00-17.00

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.

Contact us

Visual arts

Tel: 020 7492 2700

visualarts@citylit.ac.uk

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