Application

This unit of competency defines the skills and knowledge required to safely handle a variety of gem materials and identify the condition and features of gem materials.

Emphasis is placed on knowledge of the principles of gemmology, gemstone and diamond nomenclature, gemstone processing enhancement and repair, and appreciation of gemstone qualities.

This unit applies to an individual working autonomously in a jewellery manufacturing environment and guided by strict rules of procedure.

Note: The competencies covered by this unit do not include the requirement to perform accurate and positive gemstone identifications.

No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.

What You'll Learn

Assessment Requirements

Performance Evidence

Evidence required to demonstrate competence in this unit must be relevant to and satisfy the requirements of the elements and performance criteria on at least two (2) occasions and include:

following work instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs) and safe work practices

selecting relevant tools and equipment to handle and observe gem materials

using gemstone measuring devices

using a loupe

identifying gem condition and characteristics

comparing data with reference material.

Knowledge Evidence

Essential knowledge required to effectively handle and observe gemstone materials outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit includes:

safe work practices and procedures and use of personal protective equipment (PPE)

gemstone types, including selections of all the major gemstone materials as well as composite, synthetic and imitation gemstones, and diamonds

gemstone weaknesses and imperfections

effects of manufacturing and repairing techniques on various gem materials

effects of gem properties and treatments on handling

function and limitations of selected equipment

handling procedures for gem materials

gemstone and diamond nomenclature.

Assessment Conditions

Assessors must:

have vocational competency in handling and examining gemstone materials at least to the level being assessed with relevant industry knowledge and experience

satisfy the assessor requirements in the Standards for Registered Training Organisations 2015 or its replacement and comply with the National Vocational Education and Training Regulator Act 2011, its replacement or equivalent legislation covering VET regulation in a non-referring state/territory as the case requires

Where possible assessment must occur in operational workplace situations. Where this is not possible or where personal safety or environmental damage are limiting factors, assessment must occur in a sufficiently rigorous simulated environment that reflects realistic operational workplace conditions. This must cover all aspects of workplace performance, including environment, task skills, task management skills, contingency management skills and job role environment skills

Conditions for assessment must include access to all tools, equipment, materials and documentation required, including relevant workplace procedures, product and manufacturing specifications

Assessment processes and techniques must be appropriate to the language, literacy and numeracy requirements of the work being performed and the needs of the candidate

Foundation Skills

• text: This section describes those required skills (reading, writing, oral communication and numeracy) that are essential to workplace performance in this unit of competency. Foundation skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency.

Prerequisite Units

• {'code': 'MEM13015', 'title': 'Work safely and effectively in manufacturing and engineering'}
• {'code': 'MEM16006', 'title': 'Organise and communicate information'}

Parent Qualifications

• MEM40119 — Certificate IV in Engineering
  MEM

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