Editor’s Note
This article outlines a significant consolidation in the gemological sector, as IGI expands its capabilities into colored gemstones through the acquisition of AGL. The move highlights the growing importance of scientific verification and origin reporting across the entire luxury gem market.
MUMBAI, India and NEW YORK, USA, February 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The International Gemological Institute (IGI), one of the world’s largest and most trusted independent diamond grading and certification organizations, today announced the acquisition of American Gemological Laboratories (AGL), a global leader in colored stone analysis and origin reporting. This transaction merges deep scientific expertise with unparalleled global scale and infrastructure, positioning the combined group at the forefront of certification and trust in the global jewelry industry.
The acquisition will build a global platform that combines IGI’s industry-leading market reach with AGL’s pioneering leadership in the colored stone sector. IGI and AGL will enhance transparency and innovation while maintaining the scientific independence and integrity that form the foundation of both organizations.
Strategic Synergy: IGI will provide AGL access to its global infrastructure, creating an opportunity for AGL to expand its colored stone certification services beyond the US market. For IGI, this transaction diversifies revenue streams into the fast-growing colored stone sector and supports long-term growth through expanded research capabilities.
Business Continuity: Chris Smith will continue as President and Chief Gemologist of AGL. The laboratory will remain headquartered in New York and operate independently under its highly regarded brand. No immediate operational changes are planned, and both organizations will continue to deliver the same technical standards while collaborating in areas such as new tools and origin proof services.
Leadership in Education: IGI will further strengthen its global training programs by incorporating AGL’s specialized scientific knowledge and research methodologies.
Long-term Investment: Supported by Blackstone’s long-term investment approach, IGI will apply a disciplined strategy to support AGL’s continued growth and scientific leadership.
Founded in 1977, AGL pioneered origin reporting in the United States and serves premier luxury brands, auction houses, manufacturers, and private collectors worldwide. This transaction strengthens the strategic link between the United States, the world’s largest luxury jewelry market, and India, a global hub for gemstone manufacturing.
Dev Shetty, Founder and CEO of Jemora Group and former executive at Gemfields and Fura Gems, served as the strategic advisor for this transaction.
The International Gemological Institute is one of the world’s largest and most highly regarded independent gemological institutions, providing grading and certification services for diamonds, gemstones, and fine jewelry through a global network of laboratories and educational facilities. IGI delivers consistent, reliable, and transparent grading and certification solutions to major retailers, manufacturers, and consumers worldwide. The company operates 35 laboratories and 21 gemological schools across 10 countries, supporting an industry undergoing rapid transformation.
Founded in 1977, American Gemological Laboratories is a premier gemological laboratory specializing in the analysis, origin determination, and advanced scientific reporting of colored gemstones. Known for its independence, research-driven approach, and technical leadership, AGL serves leading luxury brands, auction houses, retailers, and collectors worldwide.