Editor’s Note
This acquisition unites two leading gemological authorities, merging IGI’s diamond expertise with AGL’s colored gemstone specialization. The move signals a significant consolidation in the certification sector, aiming to create a comprehensive global platform for gemstone verification and trust.
Mumbai: The International Gemological Institute (IGI), an independent diamond grading and certification organization, today announced the acquisition of American Gemological Laboratories (AGL), a colored gemstone analysis and provenance reporting organization.
The transaction brings together unmatched global scale and infrastructure with deep scientific expertise, positioning the combined group at the forefront of certification and trust in the global jewelry industry.
The acquisition creates a global platform that combines IGI’s industry-leading market reach with AGL’s pioneering leadership in colored gemstones. Together, IGI and AGL will deliver enhanced transparency and innovation while preserving the scientific independence and integrity that underpin both organizations.
Tehmasp Printer, Managing Director and Global CEO of IGI, stated.
Strategic Alliance: IGI will provide AGL access to its global infrastructure, enabling the expansion of AGL’s colored gemstone certification services beyond the U.S. market. For IGI, the acquisition diversifies revenue streams into the fast-growing colored gemstone segment and supports long-term growth through enhanced research capabilities.
Business Continuity: Chris Smith will continue as President and Chief Gemologist of AGL. The laboratory will remain headquartered in New York and will operate independently under its established brand. No immediate operational changes are planned, and both organisations will continue to maintain existing technical standards while collaborating on new tools and provenance services.
Education Leadership: IGI will strengthen its global education and training initiatives by integrating AGL’s specialised scientific knowledge and research methodologies into its programmes.
Long-Term Investment Support: Backed by Blackstone’s long-term investment strategy, IGI intends to follow a disciplined approach to support AGL’s sustained growth and scientific leadership.
The acquisition further strengthens strategic linkages between the U.S., the world’s largest fine jewellery market, and India, a global centre for gemstone manufacturing.
Christopher Smith, President and Chief Gemologist of AGL, said.
Dev Shetty, Founder & CEO of Jemora Group and former executive of Gemfields and Fura Gems, served as a strategic advisor on the transaction.
