New York / New Delhi Feb 03: The International Gemological Institute (IGI), one of the world’s largest and most trusted independent diamond grading and certification organisations, today 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 & 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 

Founded in 1977, AGL pioneered country-of-origin reporting for coloured gemstones in the United States and serves leading luxury brands, auction houses of high repute, manufacturers, retailers and private collectors worldwide. 

The transaction strengthens strategic linkages between the United States—the world’s largest market for fine jewellery and coloured gemstones—and India, a global hub for gemstone manufacturing, sourcing and certification. The combined platform is positioned to serve the global gemstone trade with enhanced scale, scientific capability and geographic reach, supporting evolving market demands for provenance, transparency and consistency. 

Christopher Smith, President and Chief Gemologist of AGL, added: This acquisition represents a pivotal and tremendous opportunity for AGL to continue and significantly grow its colored stone services. With the support and backing of Blackstone, as well as the international reach of IGI facilities, AGL will be improving and expanding the standards of integrity, service and products on a global scale across the colored stone and jewellery sectors.”

Dev Shetty, Founder & CEO of Jemora Group and former executive of Gemfields and Fura Gems, served as a strategic advisor on the transaction