Gemological Science International Achieves Global Accreditation as Verifier of Sustainability Rated Diamonds
Gemological Science International (GSI), one of the largest gemological organizations in the world, achieved SCS Global Gem Identification Verification Provider accreditation for its laboratories and offices around the world. All SCS-007 certified diamonds that are graded, scanned, and laser inscribed by GSI, and which have accompanying information on laser inscription, diamond dimensions, and carat weights, can carry the approved Sustainability Rated claim of achievement.
“At GSI, we are committed to being a leader in sustainability standards for fine jewelry,” says Debbie Azar, President, and Co-Founder of GSI. “As an industry, we must work together to ensure sustainable and responsible processes throughout the entire global supply chain. Transparency and traceability are essential for responsible supply chains and sustainability related claims. GSI supports the positive impact of doing good and responsible business, as embodied by companies compliant with the SCS-007 standard.”
In its Gem IdentificationVerification ProviderAccreditation document, SCS confirmed that GSI’s global laboratories meet the accreditation criteria as Gem Identification Facilities required for Origin Traceability Assurance under the SCS-007 Jewelry Sustainability Standard – Sustainability Rated Diamonds. Each diamond from an SCS 007 accredited Production Operation that is graded and laser inscribed by GSI is eligible to be identified as a Certified Sustainability Rated Diamond on the GSI Grading Certificate, provided that the diamond has also been Source Signature verified.
“Our accreditation of GSI independently affirms its technical competence and capacity to fulfill this vital traceability function in the diamond chain of custody from origin to consumer,” said Stanley Mathuram, SCS Global Services executive vice president. “We are pleased to have GSI on-board.”
Earlier this year, GSI announced its commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals through “GSI ‘s Path to a Positive Impact” initiative. The plan outlines how GSI will implement new procedures, policies, and programs to work towards fulfilling the goals set out by the U.N.
About GSI:
Gemological Science International (GSI) is the only major gemological organization established in the 21st century. Founded in 2005 in New York City, it has grown to become one of the largest gemological entities in the world with laboratory facilities spanning four continents. Utilizing cutting-edge processes and proprietary technologies, along with a commitment to the highest ethical standards and practices, GSI provides manufacturers and retailers globally with a wide range of gemstone identification and grading services. The company is committed to advancing gemological research and offers gemological educational programs for trade professionals and the general public through its state-of-the-art research center.
About SCS Global Services:
SCS Global Services is an internationally recognized leader in third-party certification of environmental and sustainability claims. Headquartered in Emeryville, California, SCS has representatives and affiliate offices throughout the Americas, Asia/Pacific, Europe and Africa. It is the certification arm of Scientific Certification Systems, Inc., a chartered benefit corporation. Additional information is available at www.scsglobalservices.com/services/certified-sustainability-rated-diamond.
About SCS-007:
The SCS-007 Standard, developed under an international multi-stakeholder process,establishes a uniform basis for independently assessing and certifying the environmentally and socially responsible production and handling of all diamonds, whether mined or laboratory grown, and for making business and consumer-facing claims for such diamonds. The Standard spells out extensive environmental, social and governance (ESG) requirements, confirms producer efforts to achieve climate neutrality as well as net zero life cycle impacts, and introduces a comprehensive set of checks and balances to accurately track certified diamonds through the entire chain of custody, providing an unprecedented level of origin assurance greater than 99%. Sustainability investments round out the requirements, benefitting artisanal and small-scale miners (ASM) and other vulnerable communities.For more information, visit www.SCSstandardsdevelopment.org
For more information about GSI or the new sustainability accreditation or to schedule an interview, please contact Duvall O’Steen of Luxury Brand Group (duvall@luxbrandgroup.com) or email info@gemscience.net.
