JTV, Gem-A Develop a Consumer Course on Gem Basics

Jewelry Television® (JTV) entered into an agreement with the Gemmological Association of Great Britain (Gem-A) to develop a proprietary course for the consumer called Gem Basics, Rapaport reported. This online course will introduce shoppers to gemstones and explain the basics of gemology and gem identification. The course also covers gem origins and lore, and will include a basic kit of gem identification tools and a selection of gems.
“Gemstones play an important role in our culture,” said Jerry Sisk, graduate gemologist and co-founder of JTV. “It is our express belief that a better-educated consumer will make more well-informed decisions, and will purchase with greater confidence. JTV’s ‘Gem Basics’ provides an entry-level course for beginners and hobbyists, but also provides a stepping stone for more-advanced studies through The Gemmological Association of Great Britain. This is a win-win opportunity for the consumer and JTV.”
The development of the Gem Basics course was overseen by Dr. Jack Ogden, Gem-A's chief executive. “As the first retailer in the world to sell loose gemstones on television, JTV’s extensive reach has increased the appetite for loose gemstones and colored gemstone jewelry among consumers,” said Ogden. “Gem-A is pleased to help further JTV’s mission of opening the world of gem knowledge to a wider audience.”