International Gemological Institute --- GIA

International Gemological Institute --- GIA

GIA, which is short for Gemological Institute of America, is an institute dedicated to research and education in the field of gemology. The research fund of GIA is denoted by jeweler and people of this field. It is non-profit, and it charges for the highest compared to its counterparts.

GIA was founded in 1931 by Robert Shipley in Los Angeles, California. Today, the institute is headquartered in Carlsbad, California, north of San Diego. And it sets up an laboratory of color gemstone in Tailand.

GIA is also well known for its gem identification and grading services, and developed the famous "four Cs" (Cut, Clarity, Color and Carat weight) methodology of grading diamonds. Although GIA is best known for its activities in relation to diamonds, the institute is also involved with colored gemstones and pearls. The educational arm of GIA confers the Graduate Gemologist diploma upon its graduates; the institute also offers other diploma programs.

Modern Cinderella

I used to believe that Cinderella only could live in fair tales where the lucky Cinderella equipped with pumpkin carriage and crystal shoes has the chance to live with her Prince happily ever after. On the contrary, in the real world, maybe, a Cinderella has no pumpkin carriage and crystal shoes, even no Prince.

However, in recent years the appearing of "modern Cinderellas" wavers my conviction. For example, in 19th June, 1999, Prince Edward, the youngest son of the queen of England, got married with an everyman Sophie. In 4th December, 1999, the crown prince of Belgium tied the knot with Mathilde who is common. Suddenly, I think of pearls. However, what I think of pearls is not the magnificent they radiate in front of human beings, but the torture they have suffered inside oysters.

When I was young, pearls did not interest me. And I did not understand why adults were infatuated with pieces of pearl jewelry, such as pearl necklace, pearl bracelet and pearl earrings. Until now I comprehend that what pearls attract people is not only the fantastic appearance, but also the praiseworthy spirit of endurance.