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International Gemological Institute Expands with AGL Acquisition

On February 6, 2026, the International Gemological Institute (IGI) made headlines with its strategic acquisition of American Gemological Laboratories (AGL). This move not only bolsters IGI’s presence in the gemstone certification market but also enhances the credibility of colored gemstone analysis worldwide.

A Significant Step in Certification

The combination of IGI, one of the largest and most recognized independent certifiers of diamonds, with AGL, a global leader in colored gemstone provenance and analysis, marks a transformative moment in the industry. This partnership merges IGI’s extensive global infrastructure with AGL’s specialized expertise, encouraging transparency and innovation while maintaining the scientific integrity that both organizations are known for.

Tehmasp Printer, the CEO of IGI, emphasized that this acquisition is a critical step forward for the gem and jewelry industry, stating, “By integrating AGL’s scientific leadership with IGI’s global platform, we are creating a sustainable ecosystem that prioritizes scalability without compromising integrity. We aim to set new global standards for consistency in gemstone certification.”

Benefits of the Acquisition

The acquisition is considered a win-win situation:

• - Global Reach: This union provides AGL access to IGI’s worldwide infrastructure, enabling its specialized colored gemstone services to reach beyond the U.S. market, where demand is rapidly increasing.
• - Revenue Diversification: IGI diversifies its income streams by tapping into the fast-growing colored gemstone segment and enhancing its research capability.
• - Operational Independence: AGL will continue to operate under its established brand in New York, with Chris Smith remaining as its president and chief gemologist. The operational standards will remain unchanged in the immediate term, ensuring that clients experience no disruption in service.
• - Educational Leadership: IGI plans to strengthen its training programs through AGL's specialized scientific knowledge, fostering a new generation of gemologists equipped for the future.

Long-Term Vision and Investment

Supported by Blackstone's long-term investment approach, IGI is poised to implement a disciplined strategy that fosters continuous growth and scientific leadership at AGL. AGL has been a pioneer since its founding in 1977, specializing in colored gemstones and establishing crucial links in the jewelry market between the U.S., the largest fine jewelry market, and India, a major gemstone manufacturing hub.

Christopher Smith, AGL’s president, reiterated the potential of this acquisition to significantly expand AGL’s services in colored gemstones.