GIA invites applications for 2012 scholarships

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has begun the process of applications for its 2012 scholarship. The applications can be made via online or at the GIA campus.

This year GIA has increased the total number of scholarships offered and doubled the number of international locations where On-Campus programs can be taken. The students can apply for scholarships for On-Campus programs, and Distance Education -- via the eLearning programs -- and Lab classes in the U.S. at the Institute’s global headquarters in Carlsbad and New York, and at an expanded number of international sites, including India, Hong Kong, London, Middle East (Dubai), Taiwan and Thailand. Students can access courses ranging from lab and jewelry manufacturing arts to those toward a Graduate Gemologist diploma.

“We’re pleased to offer scholarship opportunities to new locations this year” said Bev Berthoty, GIA Institute Relations manager. “GIA is committed to serving our constituents by ensuring that the resources needed to obtain a gemological or jewelry design education are more accessible globally.” Berthoty added: “This cadre of professionally trained gem and jewelry experts will help GIA fulfill its mission to ensure the public’s trust in our industry.”

The first GIA Scholarship application cycle for 2012 runs now through Oct. 30, 2011 for On-Campus, Distance Education and Lab classes. The second cycle runs from March 1 through April 30, 2012 and is for Distance Education and Lab classes only.