In a strategic move to address international shipping challenges caused by newly imposed tariffs, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has temporarily expanded the scope of services offered at its laboratories in Dubai and Hong Kong. The expansion aims to support clients affected by global logistics disruptions and ensure continued access to trusted grading services.
In an official press release, GIA stated: “D-to-Z diamonds, rough or polished, up to 9.99 carats may be submitted to the GIA laboratories in Dubai and Hong Kong. In addition, D-to-Z diamonds and fancy colour diamonds weighing 10 carats and above may be submitted to the GIA laboratory in Hong Kong until further notice.”
This expanded service offering marks a significant shift, allowing greater flexibility for diamond submissions while global logistics stabilise. Key highlights of the temporary policy include:
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Dubai and Hong Kong Laboratories: Accepting D-to-Z diamonds (rough or polished) up to 9.99 carats.
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Hong Kong Laboratory Only: Now accepting D-to-Z and fancy colour diamonds of 10 carats and above.
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Other Global Locations: D-to-Z diamonds up to 3.99 carats may still be submitted to GIA laboratories in Bangkok, Dubai, Gaborone, Hong Kong, Johannesburg, Mumbai, Surat, and Tokyo.
GIA clarified that rough diamond submissions must comply with the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme in each country. Importantly, rough diamonds cannot currently be shipped to the GIA laboratory in Dubai.
The press release further noted that GIA’s Carlsbad and New York laboratories will continue to accept diamonds, coloured stones, and pearls of any size from clients within the United States or with a U.S. country of origin.
Meanwhile, coloured stone and pearl services will remain available at the Bangkok, Hong Kong, and Tokyo laboratories, with Mumbai continuing its pearl services.
GIA encouraged clients to contact their assigned client service representatives with specific questions regarding services, and to consult their preferred couriers for guidance on shipping.
