Citing the Gemological Institute of America’s reputation for “tremendous research” on diamond treatments and synthetics, Fancy Collection has made a $100,000 contribution to the Institute’s Endowment Fund. Avi Nathanel, president of the Antwerp-based company, will be inducted into GIA’s esteemed League of Honor in 2005 in recognition of the gift.

Nathanel, a longtime supporter of the Institute, said GIA’s mission is vital to the success of the industry. “Fancy Collection donated to GIA because we believe in the Institute’s mission to ensure the public’s trust in the gem and jewelry industry,” he said. “I feel it is important to be involved with GIA since it is the authority in research.”

Founded by Nathanel more than two decades ago, Fancy Collection specializes in 0.70-ct. to five-ct. diamonds and markets to luxury jewelers in Geneva, Paris, London, Rome, and Athens. Originally headquartered in Tel Aviv, Israel, the company is now based in Belgium and has become a leading manufacturer and distributor of fancy cut diamonds worldwide.

For more information about GIA’s Endowment Fund, contact Jane Lynch, GIA’s director of Institute Relations, at jane.lynch@gia.edu or call 800-421-7250, ext. 4114. Outside the U.S., call 760-603-4114 or visit www.gia.edu.

JCK