GIA Terminates Florence School License Agreement

(IDEX Online News) – Gemological Institute of America has terminated its agreement with the owners of the licensee school in Florence, Italy, GIA said on Wednesday. The decision comes after the GIA learned that the school owners intend to file for bankruptcy.

It seems that the Florence school is not happy with GIA's decision and on Friday emailed a letter addressed to students, friends and colleagues stating that after 20 years of being part of the GIA family, they "at the very least, be treated with respect."

Further, Fred & Kathy Stocco who signed the letter said they are "vigorously fighting for any and all remedies that may be legally available to us. We place great trust and belief in the law."

GIA said it is in search of students who have registered for upcoming classes at the licensee school in Florence to provide them with other options.

“Our commitment is to the students who are enrolled in the Florence school,” said GIA President and CEO Donna Baker. “We’re trying to locate them and help them navigate their plans for the future.”

Current enrollees will be offered the opportunity to continue their education, including transitional assistance to other GIA campus locations, GIA Distance Education, or a full refund for those who elect not to continue.

Baker added, “GIA is stepping in to offer alternatives to all enrolled students who contact us. Although the school in Florence is not owned nor controlled by GIA, we are deeply concerned about the students and want to ensure they receive the finest gemological education.”

In a letter to the press, GIA directed students who require assistance to contact GIA at GIAFlorenceHelp@gia.edu or call (760) 603-4001 with proof of payment.

GIA added that Italy remains one of the world’s most important jewelry manufacturing centers and, as such, GIA will look for opportunities to work with Italian trade organizations to offer educational seminars in Italy.