UK Gem Association to Launch Japanese Version of Online Diploma

(IDEX Online News) – Following the release of the Japanese translation of its Gemmology Foundation ODL course in September of 2014, the Gemmological Association of Great Britain (Gem-A) will launch a Japanese version of its Online Distance Learning (ODL) Diplomas at the upcoming International Jewellery Tokyo (IJT). The course will go live in September.

The association said the Japanese translation aims to make the most of a growing demand for gem and diamond knowledge in the Japanese marketplace and from Japanese speaking students from around the world.

“The FGA [Fellowship of the Association] and DGA [Diamond Member of the Association]  Membership statuses have always been popular in the Japanese market, as they represent the history and professionalism of those who’ve studied gemstones and diamonds with Gem-A,” said Gem-A CEO James Riley FGA DGA.

“We hope that Gem-A’s new Japanese translations will assist the great number of Japanese students looking to gain their FGA and DGA Membership status, by making our courses more accessible to the native Japanese speaker.”

“The thirst for gemstone and diamond knowledge has really accelerated in Japan over the last few years due to the expanding sales opportunities provided by online and television selling,” said Gem-A Japan Ambassador Ayako Naito FGA DGA.

“These new courses will fit these demands by combining the traditional British style of teaching with new technologies and new flexible ways to study. We hope these courses will unlock the potential of gem enthusiasts and professionals to make a really positive contribution Japanese jewelry industry.”

IJT takes place from January 21-24 at the Tokyo International Exhibition Centre.