GIA launches Gemkids website

GIA (Gemological Institute of America) is extending its gem and jewellery education to students, in the age group of 9-12, along with parents and teachers, through its new website launch – Gemkids. The website features a Gem Explorer, Gem Glossary and Classroom Guides providing interactive, online gemology and geology education. It can be accessed at www.gemkids.gia.edu on mobile and desktops.

“Bringing engaging gem information that is fun for kids is a great way to extend our 83-year history as the world’s leader in gem and jewelry education,” said Bev Hori, GIA’s chief learning officer and vice president of education. “Students can learn about the fascinating world of gems directly on their computers and tablets, and teachers can use this information to supplement their science curriculums.”

The “Gem Explorer” highlights and informs on 15 popular gems – such as diamond, ruby and pearl, along with their image galleries, micrographs under different microscope magnification levels; and a localities map. The “Find My Gem” feature enables searching a gem according to a birthday, favorite color or country of origin. “Gem Glossary” gives common gemological and geological terms, with audio pronunciation and descriptive image for each entry. “Classroom Guides” helps parents and teachers prepare interactive programs on gemology, geology and birthstones, or prepare Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts for earning a merit badge.

The site’s easy-to-navigate content makes it friendly for children and adults.

GIA has adapted the lessons from its Junior Gemologist Program™. GIA has partnered with Boy Scouts of America and Girl Scouts of America to create a specialized Jr. Gemologist Program where scouts can earn geology and jewelry merit badges, belt loops and pins.