A few seats have become available in the Gemological Institute of America’s Graduate Jeweler (G.J.) and Graduate Gemologist (G.G.) diploma programs in Carlsbad beginning Jan. 20. The next available openings in both programs are in late June 2005. Students who are interested in attending any of these classes at the Institute’s world headquarters and Robert Mouawad Campus should apply immediately.

Through hands-on teaching, instructors in the six-month G.J. diploma program impart the practical skills that lead students to the creative side of jewelry. By working with precious metals and gemstones at their own workbench, students complete a series of projects resulting in beautiful hand-made jewelry.

Russ Hyder, manager of GIA’s Jewelry Manufacturing Arts Program, said graduates of the G.J. program are ready to begin benchwork with any retail or manufacturing operation. “Our students learn and accumulate skills which correlate to approximately three and a half years in an apprenticeship program,” he said.

In the G.G. program, students develop highly marketable skills in diamond grading and gem identification through extensive hands-on experience. Students also discover how GIA’s acclaimed experts detect treated, synthetic, and natural gemstones.

To apply online in either the G.G. or the G.J. programs, visit www.gia.edu, or call 800-421-7250, ext. 4001. Outside the U.S. and Canada, call 760-603-4001.

JCK