As the shopping mall model evolves and online retail grows, Smith shares his predictions for the future of physical stores.
Gem-A is Expanding to the United States
The Gemmological Association of Great Britain will offer courses through accredited partners in America, beginning with Jewelry Television.

Knoxville, Tenn.—There’s a new player in gemstone education in America.
The Gemmological Association of Great Britain, referred to as Gem-A, announced in Tucson that it will begin offering its courses in the United States.
It’s doing so by partnering with organizations that it’s referring to as “accredited teaching centers.”
The first of these is Knoxville, Tennessee-located Jewelry Television, which will offer Gem-A’s Gemmology Foundation, Gemmology Diploma and Diamond Diploma courses at its campus—the same as those taught at Gem-A’s London headquarters.
Gem-A said JTV was a natural choice for a partnership with its American branch, Gem-A USA, as JTV has long been a sponsor of its annual conference and is also familiar to the American consumer, having been viewed in more than 85 million American homes.
“With fantastic partnerships across Asia and Europe, we believe now is the perfect time for Gem-A to expand its reach with Gem-A USA,” Gem-A CEO Alan Hart said. “As our affiliate in the U.S. market, both institutions share the same commitment to gemmological education, quality courses and teaching excellence that has shaped Gem-A since its inception in London in 1908.
“We are also thrilled to welcome JTV as the first ATC for Gem-A USA. In the coming months, we look forward to welcoming more institutions, schools and colleges who share our passion for gemmology and nurturing the next generation of gemstone and jewellery professionals.”
Gem-A USA has been registered as a nonprofit entity in the United States with 501(c)(3) status.
For more information, contact info@gem-a.com. For application information about accredited teaching center inquiries, email education@gem-a.com.
The Latest

The trade show is slated for Jan. 31-Feb. 2 at The Lighthouse in New York City's Chelsea neighborhood.

January’s birthstone comes in a rainbow of colors, from the traditional red to orange, purple, and green.

How Jewelers of America’s 20 Under 40 are leading to ensure a brighter future for the jewelry industry.

The annual report highlights how it supported communities in areas where natural diamonds are mined, crafted, and sold.


Footage of a fight breaking out in the NYC Diamond District was viewed millions of times on Instagram and Facebook.

The supplier has a curated list of must-have tools for jewelers doing in-house custom work this year.

Roseco’s 704-page catalog showcases new lab-grown diamonds, findings, tools & more—available in print or interactive digital editions.

The Signet Jewelers-owned store, which turned 100 last year, calls its new concept stores “The Edit.”

Linda Coutu is rejoining the precious metals provider as its director of sales.

The governing board welcomed two new members, Claire Scragg and Susan Eisen.

Sparkle with festive diamond jewelry as we celebrate the beginning of 2026.

The master jeweler, Olympian, former senator, and Korean War veteran founded the brand Nighthorse Jewelry.

In its annual report, Pinterest noted an increase in searches for brooches, heirloom jewelry, and ‘80s luxury.

Executive Chairman Richard Baker will take over the role as rumors swirl that a bankruptcy filing is imminent for the troubled retailer.

Mohr had just retired in June after more than two decades as Couture’s retailer liaison.

Shekhar Shah of Real Gems Inc. will serve as president of the Indian Diamond & Colorstone Association in 2026.

This year’s good luck charm features the mythical horse Pegasus, and is our first Piece of the Week of the new year.

Articles about crime, engagement rings, and a necklace worn in the World Series generated the most interest among readers.

As part of the leadership transition, Sherry Smith will take on the role of vice president of coaching strategy and development.

It marks the third time the country has headed the Kimberley Process. Ghana will serve as vice chair.

The new Bulova x Stetson designs highlight two animals often associated with the American West—the bison and the Texas Longhorn.

Its residency at Yamron Jewelers will run through May 2026.

From influential executives to innovative designers, we pay tribute to the people we said goodbye to this year.

The retailer is expanding into areas with large Indian and South Asian populations.

The Italian brand has opened its first flagship amid the peaks of the Dolomites in Madonna di Campiglio, Italy.

The new curation at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County showcases rare gem and mineral specimens in their uncut, natural state.






















