GIA re-launching website and revised gem grading and identification reports

The GIA (Gemological Institute of America) is re-launching its website and introducing a revised format for its global-standard gem grading and identification reports later this month.

Featuring photography from GIA’s unparalleled collection of historic and contemporary images of gems and jewelry, the site will provide information for visitors of every interest level.

In addition, laboratory clients will have secure online access to their GIA identification and grading reports with the enhanced GIA Report Check service. Prospective students will be able to easily find in-depth information about GIA’s globally-recognized diploma programs in gemology, and jewelry design and manufacturing.

Later in the spring GIA will add a collection of gemological information. The public, students, scientists and industry professionals will have access to information and insights drawn from more than 80 years of research, study and education, including the latest news from GIA’s research department and the archive of the Gems & Gemology professional journal.

“We are excited to share what we have learned and developed in GIA’s eight decades of public service in this new and engaging way,” said Donna Baker, GIA’s president and CEO. “These advances are the next steps in our continuous effort to serve the global public by bringing the fascinating world of gems, gemology and jewelry to people all around the world and helping to ensure their trust in gems and jewelry.”

Beginning March 15, GIA will issue its gem identification and grading reports in a revised format. The reports will continue to be based on GIA’s rigorous, research-based standards for gem identification and grading. The new format will consume less paper and other materials, and offer enhanced security features, including a unique and durable proprietary paper, that exceed document security industry guidelines.

QR codes printed on each report will verify the document’s authenticity through direct access to GIA’s online Report Check service that now includes all GIA grading and identification reports. There is also a new, streamlined process for consumers and occasional laboratory clients to submit gems for grading and identification services.

“The revised format GIA Diamond Grading Report is half the weight of the previous version, which will reduce storage and postage costs for our clients and further increase the overall efficiency of the Institute’s grading and identification services,” said Tom Moses, GIA’s senior vice president of laboratory and research.

GIA will offer no-cost reissues for reports issued on or after July 1, 2012. Reissues of reports dated Jan. 1, 2012, to June 30, 2012, will be available for a nominal fee. The previous reports must be returned to GIA before any reissues can be processed. Laboratory clients may check GIA.edu or contact their GIA client service representatives for further information.