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IGI Acquires AGL Expanding its Capabilities in Colored Gem Certification February 05, 2026 (0 comments)
New York, NY and MUMBAI, India--The International Gemological Institute (IGI), a diamond grading and certification organization, has acquired the American Gemological Laboratories (AGL), which provides colored gemstone analysis and provenance reporting.
The acquisition creates a global platform that combines IGI’s market reach with AGL’s leadership in colored gemstones, IGI said in a statement. Also, the two parties say it will strengthen strategic linkages between the U.S.—the world’s largest market for fine jewelry—and India, a global hub for gemstone manufacturing.
“This is a transformational step for the industry,” said Tehmasp Printer, managing director and global CEO of IGI. “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.”
Highlights of the acquisition:
- It allows AGL to expand its colored gemstone certification services beyond the U.S. market.
- It allows IGI to enter colored gemstone analysis and provenance reporting while expanding this segment by increasing research capabilities.
- Chris Smith will continue as president and chief gemologist of AGL. The laboratory will remain headquartered in New York, operating independently under its respected brand. No immediate operational changes are planned; both organizations will continue to deliver the same technical standards while collaborating on new tools and provenance services.
- IGI will further strengthen its global training programs by incorporating AGL’s specialized scientific knowledge and research methodologies.
- Supported by Blackstone’s long-term investment approach, IGI says it will apply “a disciplined strategy to support AGL’s continued growth and scientific leadership.”
“This acquisition represents a pivotal opportunity for AGL to significantly grow its colored stone services,” Smith said. “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.”
Founded in 1977, AGL pioneered country-of-origin reporting in the United States and serves leading luxury brands, auction houses, manufacturers and private collectors.
Dev Shetty, Founder & CEO of Jemora Group and former executive of Gemfields and Fura Gems, served as a strategic advisor on the transaction.