RAPAPORT...  NEW YORK - In celebration of Earth Day 2008, which was April 22, the International Gemological Institute (IGI) announced plans to launch the IGI Eco Report series, diamond and gemstone grading reports printed on recycled and/or biodegradable paper using soy and water-based inks.

With its team of expert gemologists analyzing, grading and issuing thousands of diamond and colored gemstone reports daily, IGI will be setting a precedent for the jewelry industry “going green” by offering the Eco series.

“IGI is committed to reducing its environmental impact by offering reports in an environmentally friendly format,” said Jerry Ehrenwald, president of IGI.  “We are eager to introduce the Eco Report series and urge retailers and consumers alike to help us help our planet.”

IGI will launch the Eco Report series at the fine jewelry industry tradeshow, JCK Las Vegas, Friday, May 30 - Tuesday, June 3, 2008.

The International Gemological Institute, the world’s largest independent laboratory for testing and evaluating gemstones and fine jewelry, was established in 1975 and is located in New York City, Los Angeles, Toronto, Antwerp, Hong Kong, Mumbai, SEEPZ Zone, Kolkata, New Delhi, Dubai, Bangkok, Tokyo and the Dominican Republic.  IGI can be reached at www.igiworldwide.com.