Gems
Gemology is the study of gemstones.
I have been studying and providing training in gemology for the last 13 years. In order to provide quality training to my learners, I constantly upgrade myself in order to make sure that the information I provide to learners are updated and accurate.
Not only that, I enjoy learning from others as well. I always enjoy learning about my student's experiences in the market (these days, it includes the online marketplaces too). Learning from them keeps me motivated to continue acquiring more knowledge and experience in gemology.
A career with Gems
When I graduated from NUS with a degree in science (pharmacy), I was lost like many fresh graduates. Some of them would choose to travel for a year to explore the world before they start their working life. Some of them would take up any jobs to start off their careers. For me, I really didn't know what to do, so I went to bible college to study certificate in theology for 7 months.
Thankfully, during that period, I was given an opportunity join Far East Gem Institute in 2007. Not only I get to learn gemology, I was also able to have the flexibility to explore my interest in this field. Eventually, I found myself enjoy courseware development and training. This is where I started to experience more self-discovery.
Believe in starting young
In an affluent and meritocratic society like Singapore, I grew up with an education system that is somewhat rigid (it has changed a lot since then). It does not really allowing kids to explore beyond what is "necessary to achieve academic success". Hence, my mind during my schooling years was all about passing exams and making sure I get as close to As and distinctions as possible. I don't actually remember having career talks in my school or having someone to coach or mentor me about my future.
Not until I entered into the gems & jewellery industry. I realise that it is very important to give children an opportunity to explore and learn about subjects outside of school. Gemology is part of geology and geology is about earth science. In school, we learnt geography, which covers a bit of geology (plate tectonics etc.) but never talked about anything beyond that.
When I had my first child, I decided that it would be good for children to learn about gemstones, rocks & minerals. In 2012, the idea came and we launched the Junior Rock-stars Program in 2014. It has evolved and developed into what it is today - JRS Gem Adventure. Many of the children that we interacted with have grown up and some are looking for even more advanced knowledge in gemology.
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| Some of our earliest Junior Rockstars! |
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| JRS went online in 2020 when Covid-19 set in. |
Cultivating relationships
Another thing I have gained is relationships. It is amazing how people from different cultures and languages can come together because of gemstones. We connect with each other straightaway because the passion for gems just makes things click. Over the years, I've forged very close relationships with my friends from different parts of the world. Thanks to my father-in-law as well, for being that spark that brings the fire into the group. Many of them are distinguished scientists and researchers as well as honorable gem dealers.
I get to travel to different places because of the relationships I have with these people. Of course, to also get to taste food from different places. That is a bonus!
