Editor’s Note
This strategic acquisition unites two leaders in gemological certification, merging IGI’s global diamond expertise with AGL’s specialized colored gemstone analysis. The move signals a significant consolidation in the jewelry industry’s quest for trust and scientific verification.
The International Gemological Institute (IGI), one of the world’s largest and most trusted independent diamond grading and certification organizations, announced today the acquisition of American Gemological Laboratories (AGL), a global leader in colored gemstone analysis and provenance reporting. The transaction combines unparalleled global scale and infrastructure with deep scientific expertise, positioning the combined group at the forefront of certification and trust in the global jewelry sector.
The acquisition creates a global platform that merges IGI’s industry-leading market reach with AGL’s pioneering leadership in colored gemstones. Together, IGI and AGL will offer greater transparency and innovation while preserving the scientific independence and integrity that underpin both organizations.
Tehmasp Printer, Global Managing Director and CEO of IGI
Strategic Alliance: IGI will provide AGL access to its global infrastructure, offering AGL the opportunity to expand its colored gemstone certification services beyond the US market. For IGI, the transaction diversifies revenue sources into the rapidly growing colored gemstone segment and supports long-term growth by expanding research capabilities.
Business Continuity: Chris Smith will remain President and Head of Gemology at AGL. The laboratory will continue to be headquartered in New York and operate independently under its recognized brand. No immediate operational changes are anticipated; both organizations will continue to deliver the same technical standards while collaborating on the development of new provenance tools and services.
Educational Leadership: IGI will further strengthen its global training programs by incorporating AGL’s specialized scientific knowledge and research methodologies.
Long-term Investment: Backed by Blackstone’s long-term investment approach, IGI intends to apply a disciplined strategy to support AGL’s continued growth and scientific leadership.
Founded in 1977, AGL pioneered country-of-origin reporting in the United States and serves leading luxury brands, auction houses, manufacturers, and private collectors worldwide. The transaction strengthens strategic links between the United States, the world’s largest market for fine jewelry, and India, a global hub for gemstone manufacturing.
Christopher Smith, President and Head of Gemology at AGL
Dev Shetty, Founder and CEO of Jemora Group and former executive at Gemfields and Fura Gems, served as a strategic advisor on the transaction.