Education
I am an instructor at Schule für Gestaltung Zürich, where I teach in the vocational education program as well as evening classes in gemmology.
Evening Gemmology Courses
The evening course is open to apprentices, students, goldsmiths, and anyone with an interest in gemmology.
Full course details and registration information can be found here: SFGZ Gemmology Course Details
Gem-A Online Program (ODL)
I also teach the practical workshop component of the ODL Gem-A gemmology online program at Foundation and Diploma levels.
You can find me under GAAP CENTRE in the Gem-A education program. Look for “Schule für Gestaltung Zürich”.
What to expect in a course by Astrid
Introduction to Astrid by Herbert Kähli, Schule für Gestaltung ZH
Gemmology is the science of gemstones – emeralds, rubies, sapphires, diamonds, and many other fascinating minerals. Anyone who already feels a spark of excitement at the sound of these words should take a course with Astrid Bosshard and dive into the microscopic realms of these colourful prestige objects: whether to satisfy a curious fascination, to deepen professional skills in the field of goldsmithing, or simply to learn how to distinguish a genuine gemstone from a cheap imitation on one of the countless markets around the world.
Astrid Bosshard’s courses in gemmological instruments and gemstone studies are designed to appeal equally to both beginners and professionals. They are structured in a clear and systematic way. In the section on instruments, for example, this means theoretical background, the properties and applications of a measuring device, as well as hands-on practice and exercises.
Each course evening introduces a new instrument. In gemstone studies, she combines theoretical knowledge of minerals with insights into the properties, synthetics, and treatments of different mineral groups.
In this way, Astrid Bosshard guides participants through the small world of precious stones. “The inner life of a gemstone is such a beautiful microcosm – I want to open this world to my students.”