The International Gemological Institute (IGI), a global diamond grading and certification organization, has acquired American Gemological Laboratories (AGL), a specialist in colored gemstone analysis and provenance reporting. The combination is intended to pair IGI’s global laboratory footprint and market reach with AGL’s scientific capabilities in colored stones, as demand for transparency and consistent certification increases across the jewelry supply chain.
IGI said the deal broadens its business mix by adding deeper exposure to the growing colored gemstone segment and enhancing research capacity for origin and provenance services. For AGL, IGI’s infrastructure is expected to support the expansion of colored gemstone certification beyond the U.S. market while maintaining the scientific independence that both organizations emphasize as central to industry trust.
Under the terms outlined, AGL will remain headquartered in New York and continue operating under its existing brand, with no immediate operational changes planned. Chris Smith will remain President and Chief Gemologist, and both organizations said they intend to maintain current technical standards while collaborating on new tools and expanded provenance services.
IGI also said the acquisition will strengthen its education and training programs by incorporating AGL’s research methodologies and specialized knowledge. The company noted the transaction is supported by Blackstone’s long-term investment approach, with IGI describing a disciplined plan to back AGL’s growth and scientific leadership.
AGL, founded in 1977, is known for pioneering country-of-origin reporting in the United States and serves luxury brands, auction houses, manufacturers, and private collectors. IGI positioned the deal as reinforcing ties between the U.S. fine jewelry market and India’s gemstone manufacturing ecosystem. Dev Shetty, founder and CEO of Jemora Group and a former executive at Gemfields and Fura Gems, served as a strategic advisor on the transaction.
KEY QUOTES
“This is a transformational step for the industry. By combining AGL’s scientific leadership with IGI’s global platform, we are building a future-ready ecosystem that delivers scale without compromising integrity. Together, we are setting a new global benchmark for consistency in gemstone certification.”
Tehmasp Printer, Managing Director And Global CEO, International Gemological Institute
“This acquisition represents a pivotal opportunity for AGL to significantly grow its colored stone services. With the support of Blackstone and the international reach of IGI, AGL will improve and expand the standards of integrity and service on a global scale.”
Christopher Smith, President And Chief Gemologist, American Gemological Laboratories
