The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has partnered with nonprofit international development organisation Pact to launch a pilot study to test a new rough gem guide, according to Gem Konnect.
The guide is illustrated and available in English and Tanzanian Swahili, and “was developed specifically to offer basic gemological and market knowledge for artisanal miners in gem-producing regions”. It has already been distributed to approximately 45 women miners in the Tanga region of Tanzania.
“This project is at the very core of GIA’s mission,” said GIA President and CEO Susan Jacques. “We are moving practical gemstone education as far up the supply chain as possible, to people who can benefit tremendously from greater understanding of the beautiful gems they bring to market”.
