Antwerp-based International Gemological Institute (IGI), part of the Blackstone portfolio, has announced a significant leadership change that will mark the beginning of a new era for the organisation. Roland Lorie, who served as the CEO for nearly five decades, will step down and be succeeded by Tehmasp Printer as the Global CEO, effective October 1, 2023.
Lorie’s tenure has been marked by the creation of the largest network of gemological laboratories and schools across the globe, cementing IGI’s position as a leading certification authority for natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds, coloured stones, and finished jewelry.
Tehmasp Printer: A Seasoned Leader
Printer brings a wealth of experience to his new role. With over 30 years of business leadership and a 24-year association with IGI, he has played a key role in shaping the company’s strategies. As Managing Director of IGI India, Printer was crucial in introducing IGI’s grading and certification practices to the Indian gemstone and jewelry industries.
Roland Lorie, reflecting on the appointment, said:
“Selecting Tehmasp as the new leader of IGI was effortless – he has been with IGI for more than two decades and knows the business inside and out. He brings a commitment to excellence and innovation that can help propel the company into its new chapter. On behalf of my family, we are incredibly proud of the stellar reputation, teams, and trust that we’ve built over the last 50 years. I feel it’s the perfect time to pass on the baton to new leadership, and my best wishes are with Tehmasp.”
Future Growth and Innovation
The new CEO is poised to continue IGI’s growth trajectory. Printer expressed his honor and confidence in taking on the new role, stating:
“I am honored to take on this new role, working closely with IGI’s management team and Blackstone to continue to support the growth of IGI’s footprint and technological capabilities. Roland and the Lorie family have left a lasting legacy for the business, which today has become a world leader in the certification of natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds, and colored stones. I am confident that with Blackstone’s scale, expertise, and track record of building phenomenal businesses, IGI can continue to pave innovation in the industry and provide confidence to manufacturers, retailers, and consumers around the world.”
IGI’s Impact on the UK Jewelry Industry
Founded in 1975, IGI’s global footprint and pioneering work in diamond certification have had a lasting impact on the UK and global jewelry industry.
Pioneering Lab-Grown Diamonds Certification
Since 2005, IGI has been at the forefront of lab-grown diamond certification, leading the standardisation and authentication of a rapidly expanding market segment. This initiative is particularly relevant to UK jewellers, as the demand for lab-grown diamonds continues to grow, driven by ethical considerations and affordability.
Trust and Confidence in Certification
IGI’s certification practices have become synonymous with trust and quality assurance for manufacturers, retailers, and consumers alike. As the first gemological laboratory to hold ISO accreditation in both natural and lab-grown diamonds, IGI’s reports are an essential aspect of the trade for many UK jewellers.
