The International Gemological Institute (IGI), one of the world’s largest and most trusted independent diamond grading and certification organisations, announced the acquisition of American Gemological Laboratories (AGL), a global leader in colored-gemstone analysis and provenance reporting. The transaction brings together unmatched global scale and infrastructure with the deepest scientific expertise in coloured gemstones, positioning the combined group at the forefront of certification and trust in the global gem and jewellery industry.

The acquisition creates a global certification platform that combines IGI’s industry-leading scale, infrastructure and market reach with AGL’s deep scientific expertise and pioneering leadership in coloured gemstones. Together, IGI and AGL will deliver enhanced trust, transparency and innovation across the global gem and jewellery industry, while preserving the scientific independence and integrity that underpin both organisations.

Tehmasp Printer, Managing Director and Global Chief Executive Officer of IGI, says, “This is a transformational step for the industry. By combining AGL’s scientific leadership in coloured gemstones with IGI’s global platform, we are building a future-ready certification ecosystem that delivers scale without compromising integrity or science. Together, we are setting a new global benchmark for trust, transparency and consistency in gemstone certification.”

Key Highlights:

• Strategic Alliance: IGI will provide AGL with access to its global infrastructure, thereby providing AGL with the opportunity to expand its Color gemstone certification services beyond the US market. For IGI, the transaction expands its addressable market, diversifies revenue streams into the fast-growing coloured gemstone segment and supports long-term growth through cross-market integration and expanded research capabilities.

• Business Continuity: Chris Smith will continue as President and Chief Gemologist of AGL. The laboratory will remain headquartered in New York, USA, operating independently under its respected brand and long-standing leadership, while maintaining its commitment to scientific excellence. No immediate operational changes are planned; both organizations will continue to deliver the same technical standards and client service levels while collaborating to develop new tools, reporting formats and provenance services that address the needs of the global market.

• Education and Knowledge Leadership: With the acquisition of AGL, IGI will further strengthen its global education and training programs in coloured gemstones, incorporating AGL’s specialised scientific knowledge, research and teaching methodologies.

• Long-Term Investment Commitment: Supported by Blackstone’s long-term investment approach, IGI has expanded its global footprint, strengthened its laboratory infrastructure and invested in education and talent. IGI intends to apply the same disciplined, long-term investment strategy to support AGL’s continued growth, scientific leadership and global reach in Color gemstone certification.

Courtesy : AOJ Desk News