Two gemstone associations, The American Gem Trade Association and the International Colored Gemstone Association, paid tribute to Bill Boyajian and expressed their regret over his recent resignation from the Gemological Institute of America. The two trade groups issued a joint letter that was sent throughout the jewelry industry Wednesday. It reads:

It is with great regret that we learn about the recent resignation of Bill Boyajian from his position as President of the Gemological Institute of America.

In his thirty-one year tenure with the GIA, twenty years as President, Bill Boyajian has provided superb leadership over what is arguably one of the most important and influential organizations serving our industry. Over the past three decades Bill provided both a solid vision and an unflagging passion for the mission of the GIA and he understood, as perhaps only one who came up through the ranks can, how our industry has come to rely upon the GIA as the foundation of critical gemological education, a source of reliable gemstone reports and a bedrock of integrity. Perhaps most importantly, throughout his tenure, Bill remained solidly committed to the vision and ideals that legendary founder Robert H. Shipley embraced when he brought the GIA into being and were so ably espoused by Richard T. Liddicoat. Thoroughly inspired by these pioneer leaders, Bill Boyajian brought his unique brand of leadership and devotion to excellence into play and it is through his efforts that GIA has become the global entity that it is today.

While GIA will be inexorably linked to the diamond industry Bill never ignored its critical importance and its influence over the world of colored gemstones. His continued commitment to comprehensive colored gemstone education and his unflagging support of research in this field have contributed unequivocally to the success that we enjoy today. We as gemstone traders would be much worse off were it not for his support and his avowed devotion for our treasured products.

On behalf of our entire membership and people everywhere who love colored gemstones we sincerely thank Bill Boyajian for all he has done. He leaves an indelible mark upon our businesses and our lives. We wish him and his family the greatest success and happiness in the future.

Rick Krementz
President
American Gem Trade Association

Joseph M. Menzie
President
International Colored Gemstone Association

Douglas K. Hucker
Executive Director
American Gem Trade Association

Barbara Lipatapanlop
Executive Director
International Colored Gemstone Association

JCK