IGI Names Head of Education

Antwerp, Belgium—The International Gemological Institute has appointed John Pollard senior director of education.

The position has been newly created.

Pollard will oversee IGI’s educational offerings and diploma programs that comprise 14 gemology schools around the world, as well as online learning.

IGI education encompasses gemstone grading, jewelry design, and instructional seminars and webinars.

“I am pleased that John is taking on this important role. At IGI, we have always felt a responsibility to provide proper gemological education to all who choose to enter this field. Only then can we have a strong industry, trusted by consumers,” said Roland Lorie, IGI CEO.

“For over 40 years, we have educated tens of thousands of people and we intend to continue reaching more people in more places, increasing knowledge and confidence among professionals and consumers alike.”

Pollard and IGI have worked together on different projects for more than a decade. Since 2020, he has been designing curriculum and training for many of IGI’s clients, including top luxury brands, IGI said.

Pollard has also been a consultant for diamond producers, diamond sellers, and other labs, around the globe.

He has hosted educational seminars at JCK Las Vegas, AGS Conclave, the GIA Alumni Association, and IGI trade conferences.

He was recently the director of education at PriceScope.com. He has also held management roles in different industry-related companies since 2005, working across traditional retail and ecommerce.

Pollard got his start in a different kind of education than gemstones when he worked as a Texas public school educator. He was twice awarded his district’s Education Foundation Award of Excellence.

With degrees in education, gemology, and music, Pollard remains involved in youth education advocacy and serves on the board of directors of Music for All.