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Meet Our Staff of the Gemstone Academy
Meet the Staff of the United States Gemological Institute
Mr. James has led the USGI (originally the ISG) for 21 years. He holds the FGA and GG gemology diplomas. Additionally, he holds the Higher Education Teaching Certificate from Harvard University and the Business Law Certificate from Cornell Law School. Mr. James has over 40 years in the jewelry insurance and education industry as a Property and Casualty Adjuster of the Texas Department of Insurance, and is a Certified Insurance Instructor.
Natalie is responsible for video production including design and development of the USGI course notes and training videos. She provides the instructors voice throughout the USGI program and brings many years of experience in education management to the USGI community.
Tristan holds the USGI RG diploma and is an Accredited Gemology Professional of the GIA. He holds Cisco Certification in Computer Systems Administration. He is responsible for providing support services to students to make their learning experience at USGI the best possible.
Mark brings decades of professional experience as a gemologist and jewelry appraiser to assist all USGI students with their learning experience. He serves as consultant and coordinator for course development and is a crucial part of the USGI learning structure in all programs.
About Your Instructor
Mr. James hold a lava bomb at the Dust Devil Mine in the Oregon High Desert mining district in 2014
Meet your instructor, Robert James, a lifelong gemologist, educator, and industry professional who believes that learning about gemstones should be as exciting as discovering them.
With over 40 years of experience in the gem and jewelry industry, Robert has worked with gemstones from all over the world and taught students at every level — from professional appraisers to young gem explorers just starting out. He is the founder of the United States Gemological Institute (USGI) and has helped thousands of students learn to identify, grade, and understand the science behind gemstones.
Robert holds advanced gemological and teaching credentials including:
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FGA (Fellow of the Gemmological Association of Great Britain)
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GG (Graduate Gemologist, Gemological Institute of America)
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Registered Gemologist Appraiser (RGA)
- Higher Education Teaching Certificate, Harvard University
- Certified Insurance Instructor, Texas Department of Insurance
His work has appeared in gemology publications and training programs across the world, and his teaching style is known for making science fun, clear, and easy to understand — especially for young learners.
At The Gemstone Academy, Robert combines his professional gemology background with a child-friendly approach to bring gemstone science to life. Each course is designed to spark curiosity, encourage hands-on discovery, and inspire the next generation of gemologists.
When not teaching, Robert enjoys exploring new gem finds, working with jewelry artists, and sharing his love of gemstones with students everywhere.