GIA Recognized As One Of The World's Most Ethical Companies

Ethisphere Institute announces honorees for 2013

CARLSBAD, Calif., March 6, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Ethisphere Institute has named GIA (Gemological Institute of America) as one of the 2013 World's Most Ethical (WME) Companies. The designation by the international think-tank recognizes GIA's efforts to build and maintain a superior ethics and compliance program, which is part of GIA's mission to ensure the public trust in gems and jewelry.

"As a public benefit organization, we strive to apply the strictest ethical standards each day and to adhere to our core principles in serving the public interest in every country and city where we operate. We're honored that the Ethisphere Institute has recognized GIA, the only organization of its kind to receive this designation, as one of the most ethical companies in the world," said Donna Baker, GIA's president and CEO.

To be included in the annual list of the WME Companies, organizations must demonstrate an active role in promoting ethical business practices internally and exceeding legal compliance standards. The Ethisphere Institute is a global think-tank dedicated to promoting best practices in business ethics, corporate social responsibility, anti-corruption and sustainability.

Visit http://m1.ethisphere.com/wme2013/index.html for more information about the 2013 World's Most Ethical Companies.

About GIA An independent nonprofit organization, GIA (Gemological Institute of America), established in 1931, is recognized as the world's foremost authority in gemology. GIA invented the famous 4Cs of Color, Cut, Clarity and Carat Weight in the early 1950s and in 1953, created the International Diamond Grading System™ which, today, is recognized by virtually every professional jeweler in the world.

Through research, education, gemological laboratory services, and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science, and professionalism. Visit www.gia.edu. 

CONTACT: Kristin Mahan, [phone], [e-mail]

SOURCE Gemological Institute of America

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