THE Gemological Institute of America (GIA has established a worldwide network allowing diamond traders and individuals to have easier access to GIAs laboratory services. The new service, called LabDirect, will be managed by so-called consolidators who prepare the diamonds for shipping to GIA, communicate grading results to the end-clients, and are responsible for collecting payment from each client. In addition, GIA’s offices in Geneva, Hong Kong and Antwerp will provide similar services, as well as GIA’s education affiliate in Japan, the Association of Japan Gem Trust (AGT)%%GIA will be discontinuing with its former membership structure and by appointing a series of consolidators in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.