Members of the first class to complete the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) Graduate Gemologist program in New York City gathered to commemorate the 50th anniversary of their 1974 graduation.
The event brought together a group of distinguished alumni, their spouses, and GIA staff at GIA New York to celebrate the impact of GIA’s education on their lives and the gem and jewelry industry.
Milestone Event
“The 1974 NYC Graduate Gemologist class exemplifies the enduring excellence and commitment to education that GIA has upheld for nearly a century,” said Susan Jacques, GIA president and CEO. “We are honored to celebrate the remarkable achievements of all GIA alumni and their significant contributions to the gem and jewelry industry. Their dedication to learning and upholding GIA’s mission to protect consumers as the industry grows and changes continues to inspire new generations of gem and jewelry professionals.”
Historical Context
The reunion highlighted the past, present, and future of GIA education. In 1974, the GIA New York school was under the leadership of then-GIA President Richard T. Liddicoat, Jr., with Cap Beesley as the primary instructor. The program established rigorous standards, including 26 weeks of intensive study and a perfect score on the colored stone identification exam, standards that continue to be a hallmark of GIA’s curriculum.
GIA Alumni Network
GIA has over 165,000 active alumni across chapters in the Americas, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. The GIA Alumni Collective offers graduates a platform to share insights, participate in chapter events, further their professional development, and access various benefits while collaborating with industry experts and leaders.
