Calling all experts! Review these gemology programs

[Snicklefritz]

I just found this review of the various gemology programs available, and found it very interesting. I guess I'd never considered attending a school other than GIA for my gem course work, but now I'm curious to know if there are any others I should look into. ISG sure seems like an inexpensive option: Is it as comprehensive/useful a program as the reviewer thinks it is? Please tell me your thoughts on these different schools.

Thanks!

http://www.yourgemologist.com/gemologist.html

 

[Snicklefritz]

Found this old thread: https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/gia-vs-igs-gemology-degrees-help-anyone.31678/

 

[minousbijoux]

There is another website whose name I cannot mention but its geared to those in the trade with sections on both schools and labs. If you google Gemology forums or websites, you will undoubtedly find it. There is constant chatter there about the various programs, costs etc.

 

[Snicklefritz]

Thank you very much for the guidance, minous. I took your advice and learned a lot of interesting things. I'm still convinced GIA is the best option for me simply because it's the most recognized in the US and I live here, but it certainly seems some of these other options are worth taking a look at.

As a side note, I also learned that the author of the review I originally posted is also the creator of the ISG program. I don't think that discredits the program, but simply suggests that it's good to look at the source and do your own independent fact finding to determine if a program is right for you. I am still considering taking some ISG classes as a preliminary step toward my GG.

 

[minousbijoux]

You're very welcome - and good luck! I tend to agree about GIA, and would personally choose that school simply by its name recognition and good reputation here.

 

[psproot12]

It has name and reputation around the world! My cousin was talking about how at the HK gem show people were looking at GIA reports as much as gems and everybody was checking out report numbers on their smartphones.