GIA (Gemological Institute of America) launched the debut of its Jewelry Design & Technology Program at the International Gem Tower, home of GIA’s New York campus, beginning January 14. The program running for 26-weeks is conducted in a classroom outfitted with the latest technology.

The program educates on jewelry design and product development using computer aided design and computer aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology with 3D printer rapid protoyping. Classrooms house the latest manufacturing technology for jewelry design, jewelry engineering, product development, custom orders, jewelry manufacturing, jewelry repair and quality assurance. Instruction methods leverage this technology and engage today’s students through interactive learning.

The inaugural class is planned from January 14 to July 22, 2016, with the second batch slated from September 29, 2016 to April 28, 2017.