Welcome to the International School of Gemology Online Courses and Education with online and in-person classroom learning opportunities. As part of the Global Claims Associates insurance services company, we are the world’s finest and fastest-growing gemological education organization that offers world-class training in gemology, jewelry appraisal, and jewelry litigation expert witness at the world’s lowest tuition rate. We are the innovators in affordable, quality distance education in gemology and jewelry appraisal based on our certified insurance industry education delivery system. Courses have been rated the top worldwide for quality, affordability, and ease of learning. Please choose from one of our quality education programs or professional certificates, or get more information about careers in gemology from the drop-down menu.
A new concept of hands-on classroom gemology education. Learn more about this new upcoming ISG gem identification class by clicking the image.
EXCELLENT Based on 36 reviews Sue B. GIA GG GIA GP RGA AJP MBA2025-05-06Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. ISG's RGA for Professionals with Other Diplomas course is invaluable and highly focused education for anyone providing appraisals in the gem and jewelry industry. The training format and content are exceptional, with introductory videos by Robert in each section covering real-world experience, concise coverage of each topic, and practice quizzes throughout. Robert's 30+ years experience in the insurance industry including high value jewelry claims, legal litigation, expert witness and fraud are deeply incorporated into the course, providing a unique and important perspective. As a GIA Graduate Gemologist, completing the RGA course has increased my knowledge and expertise with evaluating damaged jewelry and appraising, and elevated my Gem & Jewelry Concierge business to the next level. John Ryan2025-05-05Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. As a current student enrolled in the ISG’s Registered Gemologist Appraiser Diploma Program, the curriculum is exceptionally well written and easy to understand. The format is self-paced for those who are currently working to begin a new career in the jewelry appraisal industry or those who wish to better understand the incredible world of gemstones and gem identification. missmoon2u2025-04-26Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Absolutely brilliant resource for ongoing information and insights. Founder Robert James with decades of real world experience as a multi discipline gemologist, investigator, court appointed forensic appraiser, is also an intuitive, talented and ethical mentor and teacher. As a qualified GIA GG, I personally completed the Gemologist Appraisal course and found an incredible wealth of insights, direction and knowledge of the highest level. All delivered in a professional and comprehensive format. You cannot buy this type of life experience, we are all so incredibly fortunate to have this resource, and I would urge all interested parties within the industry to avail themselves of it. Ashley Irwin2025-04-14Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I love this place Natalie Vaughan2025-04-12Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Over the past several weeks, Robert James has done an outstanding job educating me on a variety of gemstones—including ruby, tanzanite, and emerald—through his Journey Thru Gemology webinar series. His presentations are not only informative but also interactive, with dedicated time for guest questions and a strong emphasis on providing accurate, up-to-date information. I'm genuinely excited about the knowledge I'm gaining and look forward to continuing this journey. I encourage you to join me in exploring the fascinating world of gemstones in the weeks to come! Garrett Dee2025-04-11Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I'm midway through this course study and I've learned Soo much. As a jeweler/stone cutter and someone who is in the gem trade I've really needed this knowledge to help maintain the integrity of my business and most importantly I just want to know what is what and where it came from. I don't always want to have to rely on taking someone else's word at a gem show or while overseas not speaking the native language. This type of School and study is certainly providing the knowledge I need to be better and at a cost I can afford. Thank you Janet Young2025-03-28Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Loving the weekly journey through gemstones. Excellent refresher Lisa Bies2025-03-24Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. So much information, pictures and details about the stones. Robert is a great instructor to listen to and shows lots of examples. Lana Powell2025-03-21Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I highly recommend the ISG for anyone looking to gain a deep and practical understanding of gemology. The RGA course are well-structured, informative, and perfect for both beginners and experienced professionals. Robert James is an exceptional tutor - his wealth of knowledge, clear teaching style, and dedication to his students make learning both engaging and rewarding. The hands-on approach and real-world applications provided have been invaluable to my gemstone cutting and selling business , D&L Sapphires, even from the other side of the world. ISG is truly a perfect choice. rvrwokr12025-03-21Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have been learning so much from the ISG since 2016 when first discovering them. The courses are easy to understand, the instructor (Robert James) makes learning fun, and affordable, and is always ready to help every student with whatever they need. Top notch school ! I encourage anyone who wants a professional learning experience to give them a try.Verified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
The ISG has received “Best Online Gemology School” rating by two major jewelry organizations. Click the image to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get quick answers about the International School of Gemology based on our years of working with new students just like you.
About the ISG
Learn more about the founding and credentials of the ISG education programs including recognition and certifications.
Meet Your Instructor
Learn the history and confirm the credentials of your instructor, Robert James FGA, GG. Get the complete story of the founder of the ISG
I stumbled upon the ISG when I felt defeated after knowing I couldn’t do the extremely expensive GIA courses. Through RJs courses you get book knowledge, but what I think is more important, you get his personal knowledge. Through him I figured out how to get my AJP through the GIA for free, and then received a scholarship to eventually pursue my GG through them. But the ISG is what is going to make me a gemologist, and a damn good appraiser.
I want to express my deepest gratitude to you for creating such interesting and full of knowledge course. ” Litigation and expert witness course” is a great addition to all my modest experience and will help me in future become more confident in litigation process. It was a great pleasure to be an ISG student and I hope to stay as active member ISG alumni community.
I appreciate you so much Robert. I too went to GIA and even took a few International Gem Society courses and I love the value placed on ethical selling that ISG places compared to every other course I’ve taken. I feel like being able to source ethically is hugely what was missing from my gemology training and credentials and I was able to supplement that with your program. Thank you for what you do for the field and community of gemologists everywhere.
Our graduates report that our program is superior to the GIA Graduate Gemologist program on many levels. We offer courses the GIA does not offer, and provide you with a world-class education at a fraction of the cost of the GIA. We urge you to compare our programs and tuition costs.