The Gemmological Association of Great Britain (Gem-A) is set to launch a Japanese version of its popular online distance learning (ODL) diplomas at International Jewellery Tokyo (IJT), taking place at the Tokyo International Exhibition Centre in Koto from January 21 to 24, 2015. Following the release of the Japanese translation of its Gemmology Foundation ODL course in September of 2014, Gem-A is set to offer full translations of its gemology and diamond ODL diploma courses to the Japanese market in late 2015.

Championed by Gem-A's Japan ambassador, Ayako Naito, FGA, DGA, the online courses will allow Japanese students to study Gem-A courses entirely in their native language. Being the first fully-translated online courses from Gem-A, 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 new courses, that go live as of September 2015, will contain the same content as the English version of the course, allowing Japanese speaking students the same level of access to the same gemological knowledge as those studying in English.

In addition to the Gemmology Foundation and diploma being accessible from anywhere online, allowing students to discuss assignments in forums and to work the course around a hectic schedule, it’s also the first time Gem-A’s diamond diploma will be available to Japanese students in any form. The release of this course in Japan offers those already working in the Japanese diamond industry a way to improve their knowledge and certify their expertise, or as a way for amateurs or enthusiastic diamond lovers to study for an internationally recognized diploma qualification.

For Japanese professionals and prospective Japanese students this range of new courses gives them another avenue for professional development, with Gem-A’s gemology and diamond diploma, leading to the revered Fellowship of the Association (FGA) and Diamond Member of the Association (DGA) membership statuses. When students complete their diploma and sign-up for membership, they will be able to use the world-renowned FGA / DGA status to display their level of knowledge, expertise and professionalism. This brings benefits to both individuals and businesses trading in Japan or with native Japanese speaking employees who can promote their services through the inherited professionalism and expertise the FGA / DGA status signifies.

Discussing the new translations, Naito said, “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. 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.”

Naito’s comments were echoed by Gem-A's CEO, James Riley, FGA, DGA, who said, “The FGA and DGA 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. 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.”