The unexpected burst of Indian talent dominated Cannes 2024. The film festival not only featured captivating Indian stories, but also attracted top social media influencers from the country. From reel to real transitions, India at Cannes showcased global diversity and highlighted the varied career paths of these influencers – including fashion designers, stand-up comedians and makeup artists – creating an exhilarating mix of unconventional talent under the French sun. The festival was a testament to the growing acceptance and recognition of unconventional career choices, reflecting a broader mix of career opportunities beyond what was once considered the norm.
Among the many unconventional career choices, gemology stands out as a captivating career path. Gemologists, with their expertise in precious stones, seamlessly blend scientific knowledge with a flair for appreciating art. Their contributions extend beyond the technical aspects of identifying and valuing gems to being the custodians of their authenticity.
Although careers in gemology are not well known, the need for gemological expertise has existed for centuries. The Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, who reigned from 1658 to 1707, was renowned for his profound love of gems. His entourage included gemstone graders and gemologists tasked with caring for precious stones, estimating their value, and identifying any treated gems or imitations. Fast forward to today, modern experts in the field continue to practice the science of gemology and are at the center of the gem and jewelry industry.
The gem and jewelry industry in India is not just a reflection of luxury, but a vibrant marketplace employing approximately 5 million people, according to the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC). This sector is poised to grow at a robust rate of 5-6% annually, driven by increasing consumer demand and expanding retail opportunities. The landscape of the jewelry retail market in India is also evolving rapidly, with over 500,000 retail outlets nationwide and a burgeoning online presence.
In response to the industry’s growth, there has been a demand for skilled professionals, particularly gemologists who play a crucial role in ensuring the authenticity and quality of gemstones. A comprehensive gemology curriculum covers both technical expertise and practical skills to evaluate gemstones. Few educational institutes offer such comprehensive programs in gemology. These programs cover a spectrum of courses including colored stones and pearl identification, diamond grading and more, helping students prepare for wide range of career paths in the gem and jewelry industry. Some of the popular career choices related to gemology include:
Gemologist: Becoming a gemologist involves the study and evaluation of precious stones to determine their quality, characteristics, and value. Gemologists work in various settings, including gemological laboratories, jewelry stores, auction houses, and as independent appraisers or consultants. Essential skills besides strong understanding of mineralogy and proficiency in using specialized equipment to identify and grade stones are a keen eye for detail and patience. Gemologists play a vital role in the gem and jewelry industry by ensuring the authenticity and quality of gemstones, which helps maintain market integrity and consumer trust.
Retail and Wholesale Management: Careers in retail and wholesale management within the jewelry industry involve overseeing the operations of jewelry stores, managing sales teams, and understanding consumer preferences to stock the right products. Retail and wholesale managers work in various environments, including standalone jewelry boutiques, department stores, and wholesale distribution centers. Key desired skills, besides strong gemological knowledge, include strong leadership and team management abilities, excellent customer service and sales expertise along with a deep understanding of market trends and consumer behavior. Retail and wholesale managers play a crucial role in driving sales, ensuring customer satisfaction, and optimizing inventory to meet demand.
Gem Appraiser: Gem appraisers are experts who meticulously evaluate gemstones and jewelry pieces, drawing on a deep understanding of supply and demand, historical significance, and current trends. Their assessments are crucial for diverse purposes such as insurance coverage, sales negotiations, and estate planning. To excel in this role, appraisers must possess advanced gemological knowledge, including proficiency in gem identification, grading standards, and the factors influencing value like rarity and market demand. Continuous learning is essential as they stay updated on market fluctuations and emerging trends that impact valuations. Appraisers play a vital role in maintaining transparency and trust in the gem and jewelry industry by providing accurate and reliable assessments tailored to specific client needs.
Blogger and Influencer: Becoming a blogger and influencer in the gem and jewelry industry involves creating and sharing engaging content that educates, inspires, and attracts a wide audience. Bloggers and influencers work independently or in collaboration with brands, utilizing various digital platforms such as blogs, social media, and video channels. Essential skills include strong writing, communication, creativity, and a solid understanding of digital marketing, and social media. Knowledge of gemology and the latest industry trends is crucial for producing informative and appealing content. Successful bloggers and influencers build and maintain a personal brand, develop a loyal following, and leverage their influence to promote products, share industry insights, and engage with their audiences.
Educator: Becoming a gemology educator involves imparting in-depth knowledge of gemology, including mineralogy, gem identification, and market trends. Gemology educators typically work in academic institutions, gemological laboratories, or as independent consultants, designing and delivering courses that range from introductory to advanced levels. Essential skills besides in-depth gemology knowledge include strong communication to convey complex concepts effectively, teaching experience in both classroom and practical settings, and a commitment to staying current with industry developments. Gemology educators play a crucial role in upholding standards within the gem and jewelry industry, ensuring ethical practices and enhancing consumer confidence. This career path offers opportunities in teaching, research, consultancy, and contributes to preserving gemological knowledge while inspiring future generations of gemologists and jewelry professionals.
As you embark on a career, remember that unconventional paths like gemology offer numerous possibilities and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the world of gems and jewelry. Embrace your passion, explore diverse opportunities, and pave the way for a sparkling future in gemology – a career where artistry meets precision, tradition meets innovation, and every facet tells a story.
Apoorva Deshingkar is a Sr. Director at Education and Market Development, GIA India.
