Gemological Science International (GSI), one of the world’s largest gemological organizations, is celebrating its 20th anniversary by unveiling a series of major advancements aimed at strengthening its global operations and enhancing client services.
Founded in 2005 in New York City by Debbie Azar and Mark Gershburg, GSI has grown from a bold idea into a global institution with laboratories on four continents. As the only major gemological organization established in the 21st century, GSI has become a trusted partner to both manufacturers and retailers, known for its commitment to advanced technology, speed, integrity, and scalability.
In a message to the industry, GSI President and Co-Founder Debbie Azar reflected on the lab’s two-decade journey. “When we launched GSI, our goal was to create a gemological laboratory that truly understood and addressed the needs of both manufacturers and retailers,” she said. “Twenty years later, I believe we’ve delivered on that promise — and we’re just getting started.”
Strengthening Capabilities Amid Industry Shifts
Acknowledging the complexities of today’s gem and jewellery landscape — from the shifting dynamics between natural and lab-grown diamonds to rising material and labour costs — GSI announced several strategic upgrades designed to support its partners more effectively:
• Enhanced Trade Portal: GSI is expanding its digital Trade Portal to offer new features that make working with the organization faster, easier, and more efficient.
• Streamlined Turnaround Times: Internal processes are being further optimized to meet tighter delivery windows.
• Upgraded Screening and Detection: With advanced equipment and procedures, GSI now screens tens of thousands of jewellery articles daily, improving detection accuracy for lab-grown diamonds and treatments.
• Jewellery Quality Control Expansion: The lab is significantly investing in its jewellery quality control department to better serve retail clients.
• Expanded Colored Gemstone Services: GSI is broadening its service offerings to address growing demand in the coloured gemstone segment.
• New Bangkok Laboratory: Marking its latest milestone, GSI has opened a new facility in Bangkok, further solidifying its global footprint and offering greater flexibility to clients in Asia and beyond.
Azar concluded by thanking GSI’s partners and clients: “Your continued trust and collaboration have shaped who we are today. We look forward to supporting your success for many more years to come.”