The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has announced the closure of its laboratory in Ramat Gan, Israel, by the end of the year. The decision comes after the institute observed a notable decline in submissions from local clients, a result of significant shifts within the global diamond industry.
GIA, a trusted name in gemological research and certification, explained that despite efforts to reduce operating costs and staff via attrition, the Ramat Gan location could no longer be sustained financially. The closure highlights broader industry changes that have impacted diamond-related services and operations worldwide.
“Israel remains a key hub for specialized diamond cutting and polishing,” said Susan Jacques, GIA President and CEO. “While we are closing the Ramat Gan lab, we remain committed to supporting our clients through our other GIA locations globally.”
For current clients, GIA assured that all diamonds and gemstones at the Ramat Gan facility will be returned with their requested GIA reports. Starting November 17, the lab will begin accepting submissions for service at other GIA locations, and diamonds that would have been serviced at the Ramat Gan site will be processed and returned to clients at no additional cost.
However, standard shipping costs will still apply to diamonds that are submitted for processing at alternative GIA locations. In addition, GIA is working to establish a third-party system at the Ramat Gan location to accept walk-in submissions, which will then be processed at other GIA facilities and shipped back to clients.
This move reflects GIA’s continued focus on adapting to the evolving dynamics of the diamond industry, ensuring that the high-quality, reliable services they offer remain accessible to clients worldwide.
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