Marcianise, Italy (May 28, 2019) – Traditionally a topic included in seminars on organic stones, the International Gemological Institute (IGI) – Italy will now offer its first coral class. As coral contributes significantly to the jewelry trade and is one of the most notable products still manufactured in Italy, IGI’s class will place the same emphasis on coral as it does for the “big three” (i.e., rubies, emeralds and sapphires), not to mention diamonds and pearls.
Historically, industry courses on coral have been housed under the framework of studies on other gemstones; however, IGI’s innovative curriculum will change the paradigm. The new offering, which complies with all aspects of the CIBJO Coral Commission, will provide comprehensive information on coral including identification, grading, imitations, and treatments. As part of its holistic approach, lessons will also cover taxonomy, art, history and zoology. The course will supply an extensive range of specimens for participants to identify and grade. Following introductory classes in Italy, IGI will consider extending to its gemology schools worldwide
“With the jewelry industry’s renewed interest in coral, we feel the addition of this course will provide a robust education since no classes of similar caliber are currently being offered on the topic,” said Roland Lorie, IGI CEO. “We look forward to equipping our students with a deeper knowledge of one of Italy’s treasures.” A scholarship initiative was also introduced on May 28th at the annual Italian Alumni Association meeting at the Oromare Jewelry Center in Marcianise. A first for the Italian branch of the Institute, scholarships will be given to young deserving students to encourage and empower them to enter the jewelry business. In its initial stage, IGI Italy will provide more than € 32,000 to enable students to attend courses free of charge. “In the spirit of helping to make education more accessible, we are pleased to offer these scholarships to our Italian students,” said Paolo Minieri, president of IGI Italy and the Italian Alumni Association. “We believe this initiative demonstrates our sincere desire to give equal opportunities to all traders, artisans and students. We look forward to seeing the great work they accomplish through their IGI training.”
About IGI The International Gemological Institute (IGI) was established in Antwerp in 1975 and is the largest independent grading and appraisal organization in the world. IGI is dedicated to serving the diamond, colored stone and jewelry industry, and has developed comprehensive gemological reports for both professionals and consumers. IGI’s standard of excellence has earned the Institute a reputation for integrity, accuracy and reliability worldwide. IGI represents the all-important 5th C that no one should be without: Confidence. Today, IGI has offices in Antwerp, New York, Los Angeles, Hong Kong, Tel Aviv, Dubai, Bangkok, Tokyo, Shanghai and five locations in Italy. In India, IGI has three laboratories in Mumbai and one in Kolkata, New Delhi, Thrissur, Surat, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Bengaluru and Hyderabad. IGI’s longstanding School of Gemology provides an empowering curriculum to students from over 130 countries, including manufacturers, retailers, jewelry designers and jewelry enthusiasts. Practical-oriented coursework ranges from rough diamond, polished diamond, colored gemstones, pearl, CAD, jewelry design, modern treatments, and retail support. IGI is ISO/IEC 17025:2005 certified in several countries.