The GIA was established in 1931 as a nonprofit educational resource for the gem and jewelry industry. The GIA is committed to helping both the industry and the consumer public in understanding the dynamic world of gemology through its vast network of educational programs and services. By providing jewelers with knowledge tools and training to better serve consumers, the GIA strives to promote the integrity of the industry and secure the public's trust.

In the 1950s, the GIA developed the first internationally accepted Diamond Grading System. This system provides unbiased opinions on the quality of polished diamonds by applying uniform criteria to their grading. The GIA also introduced the first diamond grading report that utilizes this system in setting the standard for diamond quality documentation around the world.

To maintain its position as an unbiased arbiter of standards in diamond grading and gem identification, the GIA refrains from any involvement in the buying, selling or appraising gems and jewelry. Throughout its 67-year history, the Institute has maintained a strict ethics policy and holds itself to this code which has protected and enhanced its reputation throughout the decades. In effect, the GIA cannot and does not compete with the gem and jewelry trade; accordingly, the GIA is able to fulfill its nonprofit mission and effectively serve the public at large.

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