The Gemological Institute of America School of Business has created a new educational program designed to help jewelers and wholesalers understand the legal and ethical complexities within the global jewelry industry.

“Knowing how to protect one’s legal interests and reputation are absolutely crucial for surviving and succeeding in today’s global jewelry industry,” said GIA Dean of Business Edward S. Balian.

Three classes comprise the U.S. and International Business Law and Trade learning module. In the U.S. Business Law class, students learn the legal basics of a U.S.-based jewelry business practice. The International Law and Trade class helps students acquire a solid foundation on business practices as supported by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in the U.S. and similar watchdog groups worldwide. And in the Business Ethics class, students receive an overview of the dilemmas facing the jewelry industry today, including the differences between ethical, moral, and legal issues.

This 10-week learning module, which will debut April 3, is one of four learning modules currently offered by the recently established GIA School of Business. The others are Jewelry Business Principles, Jewelry Finance, and Merchandising. The curriculum includes lively class discussions regarding timely issues and industry-recognized guest speakers.

“This is not your traditional business school,” Balian said. “The GIA School of Business is highly focused to prepare individuals for long and successful business careers within the jewelry industry.”

For more information about the U.S. and International Business Law and Trade learning module and the GIA School of Business, call 800-421-7250, ext. 4001, or visit the GIA Web site at www.gia.edu.

JCK