The Gemological Institute of America will offer Diamond Grading Lab classes in Gaborone, Botswana, in April and September 2011. The classes will offer a practical, hands-on approach to learning, and are designed to help Botswana increase local employment and enhance career development within its diamond production industry.
The classes teach students to grade diamonds in the D-Z color range, including how to detect synthetics, treatments, simulants and fracture-filled diamonds. Students also learn how to use the GIA International Diamond Grading System and the 4Cs (Color, Cut, Clarity, Carat weight).
The classes are five days in length and will be offered at the GIA Botswana campus in Gaborone. Students can choose from four sessions: April 11-15, April 18-22, Sept. 12-16 and Sept. 19-23.
GIA Education programs offered in Botswana are accredited by the Government of Botswana. The education reimbursement initiative was determined by the Botswana Training Authority, a regulatory body of the government that coordinates and monitors training provided by vocational training institutions.