What is GIA ?

 

Established in 1931, GIA is the world’s foremost nonprofit institute of gemological research and learning.

Founded over 75 years ago, GIA discovers (through GIA Research), imparts (through GIA Education), and applies (through the GIA Gem Laboratory and GIA Instruments) gemological knowledge to ensure the public trust in gems and jewelry.

GIA is the creator of the famous 4Cs of diamond value (color, clarity, cut, and carat weight). It is also the corporate birthplace of the International Diamond Grading System. Today, GIA’s D-Z color-grading scale and GIA’s Flawless-I3 clarity-grading scale are recognized by virtually every professional jeweler and savvy diamond buyer in the world. The Institute is also known for having developed and patented the first modern jeweler’s loupe.

At the core of GIA’s activities is its commitment to education. The Institute is home to the prestigious Graduate Gemologist (G.G.) diploma. The distinguished G.G. designation at the end of an individual’s name is instantly recognized around the world as the mark of a senior professional in the jewelry industry.

In addition to the G.G. program, GIA’s Jewelry Design and Manufacturing Arts courses and the Institute’s School of Business continue to earn international recognition for their acclaimed “ real world” curriculum.

Internationally, the Institute has distinguished itself as a preeminent source of gemological knowledge and integrity. The GIA Diamond Grading Report and the GIA Diamond Dossier are considered the world’s premier gemological credentials. Diamonds of all shapes and sizes are sent to the Institute from around the world for analysis and grading.

GIA is where the bibles of gemology are quite literally written, and where the largest gem and jewelry library in the world is housed.

What is GIA? It is where the molecules of integrity, academics, science, and professionalism bond to create a reaction of extraordinary nonprofit service.