Hi Southerngirl. Thanks for chiming in.  Welcome to the forum.

Bear with me here a minute. 

Before I directly address your getting into the jewelry business question, I must admit, I am a bit puzzled by some of the things that you write. For example, regardless of your financial situation right now, if you don't respect GIA, then why even consider taking a course from the organization? Also, if you admit not having time to do any more than you currently do, then, please, why consider a start-up business?  ANY new business takes an inordinate amount of time and energy to get off the ground... can you swing it?  Are you willing and able to stick to it?  And, what happens if the business bombs, and you owe money to your "future husband?" What happens if you borrow money from him and your relationship ends? Also, you say you are "supposed" to be getting married next year... is there some reason why you may not? I'd stay away from ANY loan if the relationship isn't rock-solid.  And, remember, such a thing can put additional stress on a couple who is already, most assuredly, under pressure with a wedding ahead.

Southerngirl, in short, it sounds to me like you are in a great deal of flux right now.  What's wrong with continuing to do what you are already doing... you admit that you enjoy it; why spoil a good thing?

I don't mean to sound harsh, but, it does seem that you are answering some of your own questions.

Now, as far as getting into the jewelry business, just like ANY business, there is no magic pill. I'd suggest that you READ all you can. Books, trade magazines, websites... any publication you can get your hands on.  Familiarize yourself with industry leaders and trends.  Also, go to gem and jewelry shows.  Look, listen and talk to people. Perhaps, you could join a club or group interested in gems and/or jewelry. Get a part-time job in a respected jewelry store, maybe during the holiday season to get your foot in the door; an independently owned store would be my first choice.  Again, look and listen to learn all you can.  Talk to sales reps.  And, by all means, if it interests you, take a course.  But, don't do it to please others, or just to earn your "gold star"... do it beause you are passionate about the subject.

Whatever you decide to do, I wish you luck and success.  Meanwhile, stick around and jump in on the forum. It is a great place to learn a lot... both about gems and jewelry, as well as about people. 

Hi there SouthernGirl! Nice to 'meet' you.

Trinkette gives some good advice there, especially about the business start up. I've watched friends start their businesses and it's hard work, 24/7 sometimes. Let us know what you decide to do - wish you all the luck in the world if you decide to go for it.

Jen

Hi Southern Girl,
Welcome to Cdi!!

Looks like you've gotten some good info from Trinkette Mrs Mitchell and Big Red!

I am a Southern girl too.  I just attended a talk put on by the GIA Alum Association in my area featuring a scientist from the GIA and you may not respect someone who grades diamonds, but if you listened to this woman talk (we are talking PhD in Geology among other degrees)  you would have a new found respect.  I am talking referencing my Organic Chem days and was still a little lost. 

Welcome!

GG, I am so jealous! I would love to attend a lecture like that. DH and I took the boys to Legoland last week and you drive right past the maingate to GIA to get in.  I sooo wanted to be dropped off there! Oh well.