certified Gemological Laboratory
Laboratory #
Awarded:
Robert James
,
RGA, FGA, GG
Accredited Senior Gemologist
Professional Experience
President of the United States Gemological Institute (USGI), independent gemologist, laboratory director, educator, insurance claims consultant, and court-recognized expert witness with more than four decades of professional experience. Former Senior Gemologist with the USAA Special Investigations Unit (SIU), specializing in gemstone identification, jewelry insurance claims, appraisal review, fraud investigations, laboratory analysis, and expert testimony for attorneys, insurance professionals, and consumers.
Specialized Training
- Graduate Gemologist (GG), Gemological Institute of America (GIA), 1996
- Fellowship Diploma in Gemology (FGA), The Gemmological Association of Great Britain, 1997
- Business Law Certificate, Cornell Law School, 2020
- Higher Education Teaching Certificate, Harvard University, 2022
- Certified Insurance Instructor (CII)
- Certified Insurance Continuing Education Provider
- Texas Property & Casualty Insurance Adjuster License (#1300433), 2003
Industry Memberships
- Accredited Senior Gemologist (ASG), Accredited Gemologists Association (AGA), 2026
- Graduate Gemologist (GG), Gemological Institute of America (GIA), 1996
- Fellowship Diploma in Gemology (FGA), The Gemmological Association of Great Britain, 1997
- Business Law Certificate, Cornell Law School, 2020
- Higher Education Teaching Certificate, Harvard University, 2022
- Certified Insurance Instructor (CII)
- Certified Insurance Continuing Education Provider, TDI License#170536
- Texas Property & Casualty Insurance Adjuster License (#1300433), 2004
- National Association of Independent Insurance Adjusters
- Insurance Appraisal and Umpire Association
- American Bar Association (Affiliated Professional)
Industry Contributions
- President, United States Gemological Institute (USGI)
- Developed comprehensive professional gemology education and certification programs for the jewelry and insurance industries.
- Developed continuing education programs for insurance professionals on jewelry claims investigation, appraisal methodology, and fraud recognition.
- Author and instructor of professional webinars and educational seminars on gemology, jewelry appraisal, insurance claims, and ethical practices.
- Developed practical gem identification laboratories and distance-learning curriculum used by students worldwide.
- Promoted higher standards in jewelry appraisal methodology, disclosure, and professional ethics.
- Expert witness and consultant assisting attorneys, insurance professionals, and consumers in jewelry-related disputes.
- Advocate for continuing professional education and periodic recertification of gemology professionals.