International Gemological Institute, backed by Blackstone, announces appointment of new Global CEO

With over three decades of experience in business management and leadership, Tehmasp Printer has been selected as the new Global CEO for the International Gemological Institute (IGI). Printer's association with IGI spans 24 years, during which he served as the Managing Director of IGI India. His pivotal role in introducing IGI's meticulous grading and certification practices to India's gemstone and jewelry sectors has significantly contributed to the institute's reputation.

The current CEO, Roland Lorie, expressed his confidence in the choice, stating that the decision to appoint Tehmasp as the leader of IGI was a natural one. Having been an integral part of IGI for over two decades, Tehmasp possesses an in-depth understanding of the organization's operations. Lorie highlighted Tehmasp's dedication to upholding excellence and driving innovation, qualities that are poised to steer the company into its next phase. Lorie extended his best wishes to Tehmasp, underscoring the pride they take in the reputation, teams, and trust built by the Lorie family over the past five decades. He deemed this an opportune moment to transition leadership, placing his full support behind Tehmasp.

Expressing his feelings about the new role, Tehmasp Printer conveyed his honor in assuming the position. He looks forward to collaborating closely with IGI's management team and Blackstone, with the shared goal of enhancing IGI's global presence and technological advancements. Printer acknowledged the significant legacy left by Roland Lorie and the Lorie family, acknowledging IGI's present status as a global frontrunner in certifying natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds, and colored stones. He expressed confidence that Blackstone's considerable scale, expertise, and successful track record in business development will empower IGI to continue revolutionizing the industry through innovation. This, in turn, will offer assurance to manufacturers, retailers, and consumers worldwide.

Established in 1975 by the Lorie family in Antwerp, IGI has emerged as a prominent figure in independent certification for diamonds, gemstones, and jewelry on a global scale. Operating across 29 laboratories and 18 gemology schools in 10 countries, IGI's legacy is characterized by its commitment to excellence. A notable achievement is IGI's distinction as the world's first gemological laboratory to hold ISO accreditation for both natural and lab-grown diamonds. Since 2005, IGI has played a pioneering role in certifying lab-grown diamonds, contributing to the validation and standardization of this rapidly expanding industry.