Explore the remarkable evolution of GUILD Gemology Education from its founding to global recognition.

Founded by Mr. Charles Carmona in Los Angeles, California, GUILD marked the beginning of a new era in gemological education.

GUILD made its debut at the Tucson Gem Show, beginning an unbroken 44-year tradition of providing expert on-site identification and consultation services.

Founder Charles Carmona published The Complete Handbook for Gemstone Weight Estimation, which became an essential global reference for colored gemstone professionals.

GUILD founder Charles Carmona was appointed Gemology Consultant by the World Bank, assisting in establishing gemstone laboratories in Madagascar and Tanzania.

GUILD pioneered the world’s first single-gemstone course—Emerald Identification and Evaluation—setting new benchmarks in specialized gemological education.

Renowned field gemologist and Mine-to-Market pioneer Andrew Lucas joined GUILD, strengthening the institution’s academic and field expertise.

GUILD launched its first Colombia Field Study Program, offering immersive learning experiences in major emerald mining areas such as Muzo and Chivor.

GUILD expanded its curriculum with advanced programs including Ruby & Sapphire Identification, Advanced Emerald Evaluation, and Pearl Identification and Grading.

GUILD field study groups visited Gemfields’ Kagem emerald mine in Zambia and MRM ruby mine in Mozambique, strengthening collaboration with leading mining enterprises.

GUILD leadership conducted an in-depth field visit to the Panjshir Valley, gaining firsthand insight into Afghanistan’s gemstone mining regions.

Andrew Lucas published Gemstone Journeys: From Mine to Market, the first anthology of field gemology featuring 12 expedition narratives.

GUILD introduced the Colored Gemstone Identification and Evaluation Course, covering spinel, garnet, aquamarine, and other key gemstones.

Andrew Lucas authored The Field Gemology Handbook, distilling 30 years of fieldwork into an authoritative guide for gemologists worldwide.

GUILD solidified its leadership in gemological education, expanding global influence through innovative academic programs and partnerships.

GUILD established a long-term partnership with Gemfields, co-hosting emerald and ruby masterclasses across major cities in China for six consecutive years.

GUILD launched its alumni network, bringing together industry leaders and experts to exchange insights on colored gemstone market trends.

GUILD gemologists conducted extensive field research in Pakistan, visiting major gem trading centers such as Peshawar and Mingora.

Invited by Paspaley, GUILD gemologists conducted field studies at South Sea pearl farms across northern Australia.

Founder Charles Carmona received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Society of Appraisers, recognizing his lifelong contributions to gemology.

GUILD’s Sri Lanka study group explored the island’s gemstone sources, gaining firsthand insights into the local gem supply chain.

GUILD launched the Jadeite Identification and Grading Course, expanding its expertise across key gem categories.

GUILD introduced the Advanced Emerald Identification and Grading Course in Taiwan, extending its educational reach in Asia.

GUILD leadership visited Guatemala, the Philippines, Japan, Kazakhstan, Brazil, Madagascar, and Zambia to gather and share firsthand source insights and market updates with students.

GUILD introduced the Quartz Identification and Grading Course, further diversifying its gemology education offerings.

GUILD study group conducted field research in Zhuji, China, exploring the full freshwater pearl supply chain from cultivation to market.