The Gemological Institute of America’s (GIA) Continuing Education Recognition Program, is now being offered online, with GIA delivering the gemological training through its eLearning platform. The web-based programme is meant for GIA graduates holding a Graduate Gemologist or Gemologist diploma. It carries new features of eight interactive assignments on key gemological topics; access to GIA’s vast media library and eLearning gemology courses; discussion boards; and online chats with industry experts.

“We developed a more robust programme to deliver the tools and advanced knowledge our graduates need to stay on top of industry trends and gemological developments,” said Donna Baker, GIA president and CEO. “Continuing education is a sure way to sustain the value and relevance of GIA professional credentials. By equipping jewellers with ongoing gemological training, this programme helps GIA realise its mission of establishing and maintaining grading and professional standards worldwide.”

GIA’s new Continuing Education Recognition Program replaces the programme offered via GIA on iTunesU in previous years. “GIA made a large investment when we decided to translate our traditional print-based distance learning courses into this eLearning platform, so we are excited to offer this new learning experience to all our graduates, many of whom may have earned their credentials before the advent of online videos, interactivity and the community building power of the web,” Baker said.

The Alumni can access the programme by signing on to the My GIA portal.