Editor’s Note
This strategic acquisition by the International Gemological Institute (IGI) marks a significant consolidation in the gem certification sector, uniting leading expertise in diamonds and colored gemstones under one trusted global entity.
On February 3, the International Gemological Institute (IGI), one of the world’s largest and most trusted independent diamond grading and certification organizations, announced its acquisition of American Gemological Laboratories (AGL), a global leader in colored gemstone analysis and origin reporting. This acquisition enables IGI to combine its unparalleled global scale and infrastructure with deep scientific expertise, solidifying its position as the most trusted certification body in the global jewelry industry.
This acquisition will create a global platform that combines IGI’s industry-leading market access with AGL’s pioneering leadership in the colored gemstone sector. IGI and AGL plan to maintain scientific independence and integrity while delivering services with enhanced transparency and innovation.
Strategic Alliance: AGL gains the opportunity to expand its colored gemstone certification services beyond the U.S. market by leveraging IGI’s global infrastructure. For IGI, this acquisition diversifies its revenue streams into the rapidly growing colored gemstone segment and drives long-term growth through expanded research capabilities.
Business Continuity: Chris Smith, President and Chief Gemologist of AGL, will retain his position. AGL will maintain its headquarters in New York and operate independently, preserving its established brand reputation. There are no plans for immediate operational changes. Both organizations will collaborate to develop new tools and origin-tracking services while maintaining identical technical standards.
Educational Leadership: IGI plans to further strengthen its global training programs by integrating AGL’s specialized scientific knowledge and research methodologies.
Long-term Investment: Backed by Blackstone’s long-term investment strategy, IGI will apply a systematic and disciplined approach to support AGL’s continued growth and scientific leadership.
Founded in 1977, AGL was the first laboratory in the United States to introduce country-of-origin reporting. Its clientele includes major luxury brands, auction houses, manufacturers, and private collectors worldwide. This acquisition significantly strengthens the strategic link between the United States, the world’s largest fine jewelry market, and India, a global gemstone cutting hub.
Dev Shetty, CEO and founder of the Jemora Group and former executive of Gemfields and Fura Gems, served as a strategic advisor on the transaction.