Sample Gemology Questions - Brilliant CutSample Gemology Questions - Brilliant Cut

IGS Certification Exam: Sample Gemology Questions


What does it take to become a professional gemologist? Try these sample gemology questions from the International Gem Society certification exam.

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HomeLearning CenterGemologyAn Introduction to GemologyIGS Certification Exam: Sample Gemology Questions
The first step students will face in the International Gem Society (IGS) certification process is passing three 100-question multiple-choice tests. All the questions are based on the materials in the IGS Learning Center. Give these sample questions a try!
Sample Gemology Questions - Brilliant Cut
What's the difference between a brilliant cut and a step cut? Test your knowledge with these sample gemology questions from the International Gem Society certification exams. One-carat brilliant-cut diamond. Photo by Mauro Cateb. Licensed under CC By 2.0.

What's The Test Like?

The following sample gemology questions from the IGS certification exam should give you a sense of the scope of these tests. They'll cover gemstone formation, properties of specific gems, gem identification, and testing, as well as faceting, grading, and appraising. If you've studied the material and think you're ready, see how many you can answer correctly. Every answer has a brief explanation and/or links to the specific articles that cover the topic. If you're interested in starting the self-study program or just curious about gemology, check out the questions and answers and see what it's all about.

IGS Certification Exam: Ten Sample Gemology Questions

Question 1

If you found a GGG in a diamond band, the GGG would be classed as:

A. An imitation

B. A homocreate

C. Both

D. Neither

Question 2

If an opal showed only blue color that was very bright, had a good cut, was only slightly directional, and had no imperfections on the top, it would be graded as:

A. Below commercial value

B. Commercial

C. Good

D. Fine

E. Extra fine

Question 3

Hydrothermal grown refers to:

A. A natural process

B. Laboratory grown gems

C. Both

Question 4

Brilliant faceting is determined by:

A. Optical performance

B. Triangular and kite shaped facets

C. Dispersion

D. All the above

E. None of the above

Question 5

HPHT treatments to improve color are done on which type of diamond:

A. Type Ia

B. Type Ib

C. Type IIa

D. Type IIb

Question 6

Demantoid is a species of garnet.

A. True

B. False

Question 7

Hardness is a clear determination of how well a gem will wear.

A. True

B. False

Question 8

All mineral species have a different chemical composition.

A. True

B. False

Question 9

Cameos are made from both plastic and sea shells. They can be distinguished by:

A. RI

B. Hot point testing

C. Optic sign

D. Birefringence

E. Specific gravity

Question 10

Color change is defined as the difference between what is seen in incandescent and fluorescent light.

A. True

B. False

Ready to Move On?

Sign up for the Professional Gemologist Certification Course.

Sample Gemology Questions - Cameo
Cameo etched into a shell. Photo by Melinda. Licensed under CC By 2.0.

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