The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has announced that Tom Moses, its executive vice president and chief laboratory and research officer, will leave the organisation at the end of May after nearly 50 years of service.
Since joining GIA’s Santa Monica laboratory in 1976, Moses has become a central figure in modern gemmology, overseeing the institute’s growth into a global leader in gem grading, research, and education. Under his leadership, the GIA expanded its network to 10 laboratories and seven schools across 10 countries.
Moses will be named Chief of Gemological Research, Emeritus, in recognition of his extraordinary contributions. During the transition, he will continue to support the institute’s research programmes and client relations to ensure continuity.
GIA president and CEO Pritesh Patel praised Moses’ “rigour in grading, discipline in science, and unwavering commitment to excellence,” describing his half-century at GIA as “a period of remarkable growth driven by Tom’s leadership and curiosity.”
Throughout his career, Moses co-authored over 100 technical papers and served on GIA’s Board of Governors. In 2002, he received the Richard T Liddicoat Award for Distinguished Achievement, the organisation’s highest honour.
The GIA confirmed that the leadership transition has been in preparation for several years and that no direct successor will be appointed to Moses’ role.
16-03-2026
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