Behind every exceptional piece of jewellery are extraordinary gem and jewellery experts known as "gemologists." From our buyers to our quality assurance team, to our diamond and jewellery experts, Blue Nile proudly employs nearly two-dozen Graduate Gemmologists. These experts are invaluable when it comes to sourcing, evaluating, and inspecting our fine jewellery products.
So what exactly does a gemmologist do? Simply put, gemmology is a science that includes intense academic study of diamonds, gemstones, pearls, and precious metals. The Gemmological Institute of America (GIA), established in 1931, is recognized as the world’s leading authority of information, standards, and education for diamonds, gemstones and jewellery. GIA’s Graduate Gemmologist diploma is one of the most recognized credentials in the jewellery industry.
Once graduated, a gemmologist is qualified for roles as varied as diamond and gemstone buying and merchandising, lab research and grading, appraising, jewellery design, auction house or museum specialist, jewellery photographer, jewellery blogger, lapidary artist, educator, and more. For most gemmologists, their passion for jewellery and gemstones leads to a lifetime of continued curiosity and learning. Every gemstone is unique making gemmology an endless source of inspiration.
GIA has built their reputation on ensuring the public’s trust in their gem and jewellery standards, which goes hand-in-hand with Blue Nile’s own industry-leading quality standards. Every loose diamond we carry is accompanied by a GIA grading report, and we inspect every one of those diamonds by hand utilizing microscopes and various grading instruments, to ensure you’re getting an exceptional –and accurately graded—gemstone.
It goes far beyond our diamonds, however. From the time we source a piece of jewellery to the moment it’s in your hand, our gemmologists have inspected it numerous times. They’re the front line of defense, and their passion and expertise shows in every piece of exceptional jewellery we sell.