RAPAPORT… The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) will scale back its Antwerp operations from January, but has decided not to shut the laboratory entirely.
“Today, we notified clients of the GIA laboratory in Antwerp that, as of January, the laboratory will offer consolidated services with reduced staff,” a spokesperson told Rapaport News Monday. It will continue to provide client consultations, rough-diamond analysis for the GIA Diamond Origin Report, and some follow-up services and inscriptions for D-to-Z diamonds up to 3.99 carats, he added.
In August, the GIA revealed preliminary plans to close or significantly trim its laboratory and offices in the Belgian city, citing market conditions and the Covid-19 pandemic.
Image: GIA grading report. (GIA)
GIA to Cut Back Antwerp Business
The Bottom Line
- GIA will scale back its Antwerp laboratory from January, reducing staff and consolidating services.
- The lab will continue client consultations, rough-diamond analysis for the Diamond Origin Report, and limited follow-up services.
- Services will focus on D-to-Z diamonds up to 3.99 carats, with some inscriptions maintained.
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