US chapter of International Institute of Gemology — IIG India · Est. 1965 · 100,000+ alumni
About IIG America
The International Institute of Gemology was founded in Mumbai in 1965 to bring scientific rigor to gem and jewelry education. Six decades later, with 100,000+ alumni, we’re bringing that heritage to the United States.
Our Parent Institute
IIG was founded in 1965 by Kantilal Desai in Mumbai, India. What began as a small classroom for diamond traders has grown into one of the most respected gemological institutes in the world.
Today, IIG India operates campuses across Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, and Hong Kong. Its teaching collection — built over six decades — includes over 100,000 gemstone specimens, one of the largest in the world.
IIG America is the United States chapter of this parent institute. We bring the same curriculum, the same faculty standards, and the same industry partnerships — delivered in person and online for US learners.
To be the most trusted center for gem and jewelry education in the world — enabling every aspiring professional to turn their passion into a thriving career, on any continent.
Enable, empower, and encourage the dreams of gem and jewelry students. Combine scientific rigor with hands-on practice — and connect every graduate to the industry they’re joining.
Leadership
Chairman & Managing Director
Author of “Diamond Fundamentals” and the driving force behind IIG’s global expansion. Under his leadership, IIG has grown from a Mumbai classroom in 1965 to a network spanning five Indian campuses, Hong Kong, and now the United States.
Director of Education
Internationally acclaimed gemologist with expertise in colored stones, diamonds, and jewelry. Pioneer of IIG’s hands-on, practical-first pedagogy.
Head of Diamond Studies
Leading authority on diamond grading and evaluation, bringing deep collaboration experience with the De Beers Institute of Diamonds to every student.
Our Journey
Kantilal Desai founds IIG in Mumbai
First international affiliation with Gem-A (UK)
10,000 alumni milestone
Collaboration with De Beers Group established
50th anniversary — 75,000 alumni worldwide
Online courses launched globally
100,000+ alumni across 5 Indian campuses and Hong Kong
IIG America officially established
Join the 100,000+ alumni who have chosen IIG to transform their passion for gems and jewelry into a career.
