Gemmology and Jewellery Studies

Gemmology and jewellery studies is a specialised but globally significant discipline concerned with the scientific identification and valuation of gemstones and the design, craftsmanship and commercial management of jewellery. Gemstones are among the most valuable materials traded internationally, and the ability to identify, grade and authenticate them requires both scientific knowledge and practical expertise. Jewellery studies adds an understanding of design history, production techniques, markets and the commercial dimensions of an industry that ranges from artisan craft to major luxury brands.

At Birmingham City University, this three-year full-time programme is globally renowned and deeply rooted in the history of Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, which has been a centre of the gemstone and jewellery trade for centuries. The programme includes a sandwich year and a work placement, giving you direct professional experience in the industry before you graduate and building the connections and practical competence that employers in this specialist field value. The combination of scientific rigour, craft knowledge and commercial awareness is central to what the programme develops.

You will study the mineralogy and crystallography of gemstones, methods of gemological identification and grading, the history of jewellery design across cultures and periods, precious metals and their working, gem-set jewellery production and the commercial and luxury markets for gemstones and jewellery. Laboratory and practical work develop the hands-on skills that professional gemmologists and jewellery specialists use.

Graduates go on to careers as gemologists, jewellery designers, auction house specialists, jewellery buyers, gemmological consultants, retail specialists and educators in the gemstone and jewellery industries. Some go on to professional gemmological qualifications or postgraduate study in design, luxury brand management or related fields. The programme's reputation and Birmingham's industry connections support strong employment outcomes in a distinctive and internationally active sector.