Structural Engineering, Workmanship and Appraisal of Antique and Contemporary Jewellery

GEM 3003SED

Course Guide

STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING, WORKMANSHIP AND APPRAISAL OF ANTIQUE AND CONTEMPORARY JEWELLERY

GEM 3003SED

Course Guide

STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING, WORKMANSHIP AND APPRAISAL OF ANTIQUE AND CONTEMPORARY JEWELLERY

Course Start Date

Spr 2026

Course Level

3000

Length in Terms

2 terms

Credits

6

Language

English

Fees ($) (including lab fees)

33,000

Future Terms

Quota and Schedule

Course Start Date	Course Level	Length in Terms	Credits	Language	Fees ($) (including lab fees)	Future Terms
Spr 2026	3000	2 terms	6	English	33,000

Quota and Schedule

Course Coordinator:

Ms. Carman MA (MUST)

Course Developer:

TBC

This course is a 6-credit-unit, 3000-level course offered by the School of Science and Technology in distance learning mode. It is a core course in the Bachelor of Applied Science in Gemmology and Jewellery Studies programme.

Aims

This course aims to:

analyse the scientific and technological advancements that shaped the historical evolution and cultural significance of jewellery design globally;
demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the structural engineering and materials science principles underlying jewellery design and manufacturing;
evaluate the evolution of jewellery design and manufacturing, and its impact on the industry and consumer preferences; and
identify, authenticate and appraise antique and contemporary jewellery, including the geographic localities of gemstones through the application of technical knowledge, craftsmanship and scientific analysis.

Contents

This course covers the following topics:

The science and history of world jewellery evolution
Structural engineering in jewellery styles by era
Materials science of jewellery
Jewellery manufacturing techniques and craftsmanship
The science of jewellery authentication
Gems and jewellery appraisal methods

Learning support

This course includes 66-hour lectures. In the lectures, the lecturer will carry out a mix of teaching and learning activities, including explanations, discussions and demonstrations. Students can take the opportunity to interact and ask questions. The course will also provide telephone consultations.

Assessment

The course assessment includes two assignments (60%) and a project-based assessment (40%). Students are required to submit assignments via the Online Learning Environment (OLE).

There are a number of rules and regulations relating to assessment and these are provided in the Student Handbook. Students are strongly recommended to read this handbook, as it explains the general requirements for all assessment and the way grades are actually determined.

Online requirement

This course uses the Online Learning Environment (OLE). There students will find course materials and the latest course information. Students can also make use of the platform to communicate with their tutor, Course Coordinator and fellow students. Students are recommended to visit the OLE regularly. For details about the OLE and how to access it, please refer to the Online Learning Environment User Guide.

Equipment

Students will need a computer to do some exercises and access the Internet and the Online Learning Environment (OLE) of the course. We recommend the following computing requirements:

A PC or equivalent
An email account
Internet connection

Software

Windows 10 or equivalent
A Web browser: Microsoft Edge, Firefox, Google Chrome, Safari

Set book(s)

Ogden, J. (2024). Jewelry Technology in the Ancient & Medieval World. Brynmorgen Press.
Newman, R. (2021). Diamonds: Their History, Sources, Qualities and Benefits. Firefly Books.

Students with disabilities or special educational needs

The audio and visual components of this course may cause difficulties for students with hearing or vision impairment. They are encouraged to seek advice from the Course Coordinator before enrolling in the course.