The newly founded Irish Gemmological Society aims to promote the science of gemmology in Ireland by providing a forum for people with a general interest in gemstones as well as for those working with jewellery and gemmology related activities. The Society’s activities programme will include lectures, fieldtrips and laboratory demonstrations focused on the wonderful colourful world of gemstones.

The Society is linked to the Department of Earth and Ocean Sciences (EOS) which offers an adult education evening diploma course entitled Diploma in Scientific Studies (Gemmology) under the directorship of senior lecturer, Dr Martin Feely. Furthermore, studies of gemstones from around the world also form an integral part the EOS research programme. The gemstone research is linked to Dr Feely’s Fluid Inclusion Research Group which uses a variety of analytical techniques (from transmitted light microscopy to laser raman spectroscopy) to study the optical and chemical properties of  gemstones e.g. diamond, ruby, sapphire and emerald. EOS is designated as an Allied Gem Tutorial Centre by the Gemmological Association of Great Britain.

Dr Martin Feely Senior Lecturer, NUI Galway.
Adjunct Associate Professor of Earth Science (Boston University, US, 1997-2005).
Adjunct Professor of Geology and Environmental Science, (James Madison University, Virginia, US 2006-present).