The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the Indian Institute of Gems and Jewellery (IIGJ) together, plan to offer two gemmological courses in Jaipur, each spanning two weeks. The courses are the in-class Accredited Jewellery Professional (A.J.P) diploma programme beginning on February 2 and the Diamond Grading Lab Class beginning on February 9. Nirupa Bhatt, managing director, GIA India/Mideast region, said, “GIA India plans to focus on education this year, with the goal to reach six cities within the country, including Jaipur and Kolkata, by the year 2010. Looking at the huge talent pool of people interested in gemology in India, as well as the immense opportunities in the gemstone industry throughout the country, we hope to train some 2,000 professionals each year.”

Registration is open for the classes that will begin the first week of February. The venue for the two classes will be the Hotel Park Prime in Jaipur.

Bhatt said, “Skilled professionals will be crucial to the industry’s growth. GIA is taking world-class education to key Indian markets to align local skills with international standards. Moreover, there is a tremendous need to attract and train fresh talent who will play a significant role in rejuvenating the industry. GIA India aims to help bridge the gap and fulfil this need.”

Today, GIA is nicknamed as "the Harvard of the gem and jewellery industry."