As Bahrain continues to strengthen its position in the global gemstone and jewellery trade, a critical gap is emerging: the need for more locally based, accredited gemmologists. With demand for precious stones and fine jewellery rising worldwide, the pressure is mounting for Bahrain to build its own pipeline of qualified professionals to meet international standards.

Across the global gem and jewellery sector, technical expertise has become a prerequisite. Whether it’s retail, laboratory analysis, authentication, or high-value investment in gems, the industry increasingly requires professionals with formal, accredited training. In Bahrain, however, the number of certified gemmologists remains limited — a reality that poses challenges for a country that has long been regarded as a natural pearl capital and a regional authority on gemmology.

This shortage of accredited local talent has created a gap between Bahrain’s heritage and its ambitions. Despite the nation’s deep historical ties to natural pearls and its growing presence in high-end jewellery retail and trade, many roles requiring specialised gemmological knowledge are still filled by international experts. This reliance highlights an urgent need to invest in developing homegrown capabilities in the field.

The demand is not only coming from within Bahrain. Regionally and globally, markets are shifting toward transparency, certification, and consumer trust — all of which are driven by professionals with recognised gemmological credentials. As a result, institutions, businesses, and investors are increasingly seeking individuals with industry-specific qualifications to lead in areas such as gemstone sourcing, grading, valuation, and authenticity verification.

In response to this growing demand, educational pathways in gemmology have begun to gain traction among Bahrainis and residents of the wider Gulf region. One such institution helping to fill the gap is the Bahrain Institute for Pearls and Gemstones (DANAT). Accredited by the Gemmological Association of Great Britain (Gem-A), DANAT quietly offers a range of internationally recognised professional programmes, including the Gem-A Gemmology Foundation Programme, the Gem-A Gemmology Diploma Programme, and the DANAT Pearl Program.

These programmes, delivered by certified instructors in a modern, hands-on training environment, are helping to nurture a new generation of gemmology professionals in Bahrain. While not the only solution to the skills shortage, they represent a key step toward building a workforce equipped to serve — and lead — in the evolving gem and jewellery industry.

With the next academic cycle beginning in September, Bahrain now stands at a pivotal moment. Bridging the gap between legacy and innovation will depend on how effectively the country can develop and retain its own experts — professionals not only fluent in the science of gemmology, but trained to meet the highest international standards.

More information about DANAT’s programmes can be found at edu.danat.bh.