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The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has appointed John Cowley as its chief financial officer and announced the launch of a new gemology school in Taiwan.
Cowley brings over 30 years of global financial and operational experience to his new role, the institute said last week. His skills span senior leadership roles, including at global software and medical-technology companies, as well as at nonprofit and public-sector organizations.
“John Cowley is an impressive and important addition to GIA’s executive team,” said CEO Pritesh Patel. “His international experience, financial expertise and disciplined leadership make him exceptionally well-suited to the role.”
Crowley’s position will take effect April 6, when he will succeed David Tearle, who is retiring on June 30. Tearle joined the GIA in 2009 as chief financial officer. Over the years, he supported the institute’s global expansion and the development of innovative laboratory and educational programs and services. He was also a member of the board of directors and treasurer of the Jewelers’ Security Alliance from 2013 until 2026.
Meanwhile, the institute inaugurated a Gemology and Jewelry Arts campus in Taiwan last month. It will be the only GIA facility offering the graduate gemologist program in Chinese. The school will also provide flexible weekend and evening sessions designed to support students and working professionals. Attending the opening ceremony were Patel, GIA chief learning officer Cathryn Ramirez, and Vivian Po-Yun Wang, director of the GIA Taiwan campus, who conducted the event.
“Education is the foundation of GIA, and it is crucial that we prepare each new generation of gem and jewelry professionals with the education, skills and experience needed to thrive and succeed within the industry,” said Patel. “Our new campus in Taiwan will allow us to expand our education services and resources on a local and global scale.”
Image: John Cowley. (Gemological Institute of America)
