IIG America · Diamond Education
Diamond
Fundamentals
From carbon atom to the trading floor — the science, grading and market intelligence of diamonds.
About the Course
Precision knowledge,
professional confidence.
Diamond Fundamentals is a rigorous, practitioner-focused course built on IIG India's 60 years of gemological excellence. It gives you the scientific depth, grading precision and market acumen to work confidently with diamonds at any level of the industry.
Structured across three progressive modules, the course moves from geology and crystal science through GIA's 4Cs grading system into the rapidly evolving lab-grown diamond market. Every concept is anchored to real trade applications.
Duration
Self-paced online
Certificate
IIG America Diamond Certificate
Level
Beginner to Intermediate
Questions? Schedule a consultation →
Module 01
Diamond Formation & Mineralogy
Explore how diamonds form deep within the Earth over billions of years. Study crystal structure, type classifications, natural inclusions, and how geological origin shapes rarity and value.
- Crystal growth & formation environments
- Diamond types — Type I, IIa, IIb explained
- Natural, synthetic & simulant distinctions
- Geographic origins & rarity indicators
Module 02
The 4Cs — Grading & Evaluation
Master the international language of diamond quality. Learn GIA grading standards for cut, colour, clarity and carat weight, and practice applying them to real stones.
- Cut grades: Ideal, Excellent, Very Good, Good
- Colour scale D–Z and natural fancy colours
- Clarity: FL to I3, inclusions under the loupe
- Carat weight, measurement & pricing formulas
Module 03
Lab-Grown Diamonds & Market Intelligence
Navigate the most rapidly evolving segment of the diamond trade. Identify HPHT and CVD lab-grown diamonds using modern instruments, and decode global pricing and consumer trends.
- HPHT vs. CVD growth methods & telltale signs
- Identification instruments & field techniques
- Diamond pricing structure & market dynamics
- Ethical sourcing, the Kimberley Process & compliance
Learning Outcomes
What you'll master.
Grade diamonds confidently using the 4Cs and GIA nomenclature
Identify lab-grown diamonds and simulants with professional instruments
Understand diamond formation, crystal structure, and geological origins
Read and interpret GIA, IGI, and HRD laboratory grading reports
Apply diamond pricing formulas and understand market valuation
Navigate ethical sourcing and Kimberley Process trade compliance
Communicate diamond quality to clients with authority and clarity
Earn the IIG America Diamond Fundamentals Certificate
What our students say
The depth of knowledge packed into this course exceeded every expectation. I can now confidently advise clients on diamond selection and grading.
Sarah K.
Jewelry Retailer, New York
The lab-grown diamond module alone was worth the entire course. Crystal clear, expertly taught, and immediately applicable to my work on the trading floor.
James M.
Diamond Buyer, Los Angeles
Begin your journey
Ready to master diamonds?
Join professionals across the US who have earned the IIG America Diamond Fundamentals Certificate.