(PRESS RELEASE) NEW YORK — The International Gemological Institute (IGI), the world’s largest independent gemological laboratory, has joined the Retail Jewelers Organization (RJO). The Institute will now be part of an exclusive network of retail and vendor members where ideas are presented and collaboration is welcomed. Since 1966, RJO’s community has used buying power to negotiate better pricing for goods from vendors.
“IGI is eager to further establish relationships with additional independent retailers and vendors and introduce its diverse services to the RJO community,” said IGI North American President Avi Levy. “As a pioneer in gemological grading, the Institute is honored to have the opportunity to collaborate with professional peers and share its best practices.”
The Institute looks forward to integrating into the network by engaging in RJO’s extensive opportunities including educational and buying show seminars and overseas branding trips. All of these offerings provide retailers with new ideas to take back and implement in their stores.
“We are looking forward to this new partnership with IGI and what they will offer to the RJO membership,” said RJO’s CEO Sarah Streb. “IGI’s expertise and shared educational passion pairs well with the goals of our organization. We are excited to welcome them to the RJO family.”
“IGI pursued a membership with the RJO to further its active leadership role within the gemological sector,” continued Levy. “IGI went through an extensive evaluation as a part of the approval process and is proud to have been accepted.”
For over 50 years, the RJO has served as a knowledgeable network that seeks to share information and refine the industry’s most creative ideas. The Organization has made education a priority and attributes its success from the commitment of its members.