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Press Release: The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) continued its outreach to the South African gem and jewelry trade during Jewellex Africa 2013, which took place at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg from August 31 to September 2. This is the fifth consecutive year the GIA exhibited at the show, establishing its presence at one of the premiere trade shows in the region. GIA alumnus and local jeweler Nqobile Nkosi (pictured) proudly displayed his GIA Accredited Jewelry Professional (AJP) diploma alongside his work at his booth during the show.  Nkosi, a jeweler from Soweto, completed his AJP program soon after receiving an education scholarship from GIA. He is currently the president of GIA’s Africa Alumni Chapter, and has motivated many as the first designer and jeweler from Soweto. “Many students were deeply inspired by Mr. Nkosi, and came to our booth to find out more about GIA’s gem and jewelry education offerings,” said Elizabeth Bokaba, GIA’s manager of alumni and client relations in South Africa. “Not only is this event a way to let more people in the South African gem and jewelry industry know about our lab and education offerings, but it’s a great opportunity to meet and interact with aspiring professionals and industry veterans looking to enhance their knowledge.” Institute representatives presented education catalogs, answered questions about services and provided branded handbags to booth visitors. Since 2008, GIA has expanded its presence in Africa, opening two full-time laboratories and offering classes in Gaborone, Botswana and Johannesburg; establishing partnerships with government agencies and universities throughout the continent; and maintaining a global network of active alumni. Today, there are more than 800 alumni and two GIA Alumni Chapters in Africa. For more information about GIA education in Africa, visit www.gia.edu. About GIA An independent nonprofit organization, GIA, established in 1931, is recognized as the world’s foremost authority in gemology. GIA invented the famous 4Cs of color, cut, clarity and carat weight in the early 1950s and in 1953, created the International Diamond Grading System™ which, today, is recognized by virtually every professional jeweler in the world. Through research, education, gemological laboratory services, and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science, and professionalism. Visit www.gia.edu.
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