GIA announced that plans are underway to establish a laboratory in Japan in 2012. The decision was made following lengthy consultations with various Japanese stakeholders.

In addition to developing a lab presence in Japan, a GIA facility in Israel is scheduled to open in 2012. Both initiatives will benefit the Institute’s ongoing efforts to expand lab capacity.

"We are excited to develop a presence in Japan," said Donna Baker, president and CEO of GIA. "Japan, along with India and China, are the world’s leading diamond markets, behind the U.S."

Baker added, "GIA’s mission is to promote the public trust in gems and jewelry and, as such, we will do everything within our means to carry forth this mission in Japan and to assist the Japanese diamond community in furthering these goals."

Further details on the GIA facility and services in Japan will be announced at a later date.