Diamond Council of America Announces Individual Membership Category

The Diamond Council of America (DCA) is excited to announce the creation by the board of directors of a new member category to be known as DCA Individual Member.

“DCA’s board recognizes the diamond industry is evolving and that a thriving industry demands an educated market,” says Terry Chandler, president of the DCA. “DCA has created the new member category in response to numerous inquiries from consumers and industry professionals over the past several years for access to DCA’s accredited courses.” The Diamond Council of America’s accredited courses have, up to now, only been available to employees of DCA executive or associate member companies. The new member category opens DCA’s program to a broad audience with a variety of interests.

Chandler added, “We take the responsibility of diamond education very seriously and have created this new member category to provide an unparalleled opportunity, for all who seek it, to join DCA and enroll in our DETC (Distance Education and Training Council) accredited courses.” Dues for DCA individual members are $35 annually. DCA individual membership applications are available online at  www.diamondcouncil.org.

The new DCA Diamond Studies Course has been developed specifically for this new member category, which potentially includes anyone interested in diamonds and diamond jewelry - from students, hobbyists, and consumers to those considering the fine jewelry industry as a career. The new course covers the 4Cs, diamond jewelry and its care, plus treated, lab-created, and simulated diamonds. Background on diamond myth and lore, and how diamonds are formed, found, mined, and cut round out this comprehensive training.

“The course’s online format enables diamond buyers, artisans, collectors and hobbyists to access it at their convenience and move through the material at their own pace. The lessons have distinct components that are designed to create a complete and personalized learning experience,” says Lissa Roussel, Director of Operations. Progress is tested and coursework graded, culminating in a final examination and acknowledgement of achievement by DCA. Tuition for the Diamond Studies Course is $165.00. The Diamond Studies Course is now available at www.diamondcouncil.org.

The Diamond Council of America (DCA) was founded in 1944 to educate jewelry sales professionals about diamonds and gems and is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC). Operating as a not-for-profit organization, DCA provides professional jewelers an opportunity to earn certifications in diamonds and colored gemstones through distance education, and gives salespeople the knowledge and training necessary to make them successful. DCA represents more than 5,200 jewelry stores and leading suppliers of diamonds and gems across the country.

Source: diamonds.net