The International Gemological Institute (IGI) is now providing QR (quick response) codes for IGI-certified jewelry. The code will link to a jewelry’s IGI report, which can be viewed with a smartphone.

The IGI QR codes benefit the sales associates in that they can more easily communicate relevant gemological grading information – 4Cs (cut, color, clarity and carat), authentication of precious metals, etc. The codes also help consumers, assuring them of an item’s quality.

As part of the certification process, the QR code will be included within the IGI Seal of Inspection/Standard of Excellence, affixed to each article. As before, hard copy reports are also available for all IGI-certified jewelry.

“We are eager to bring additional benefit to both retailers and consumers by offering a real-time way to access a unique IGI report, as this is a crucial step in the fine jewelry buying process,” said IGI's president and CEO, Jerry Ehrenwald.

At the JCK Las Vegas Show, an IGI QR code demonstration will be conducted at IGI’s booth, with a scheduled appointment.