IGI Announces USD 13.2 Million Acquisition of American Gemological Laboratories Through Step-Down Subsidiary
International Gemmological Institute (India) Limited announced the acquisition of AGL Holdco Inc and American Gemological Laboratories through step-down subsidiary IGI USA for USD 13.2 million. The transaction, approved on January 31, 2026, involves USD 9 million at closing and USD 4.2 million post-closing. AGL, founded in 1977 with FY 2024 turnover of USD 3.85 million, specializes in colored gemstone certification and will continue operating independently while gaining access to IGI's global network for expansion beyond the US market.

*this image is generated using AI for illustrative purposes only.
International Gemmological Institute (India) Limited has announced a strategic acquisition that will significantly expand its presence in the colored gemstone certification market. The company's board of directors approved the acquisition of AGL Holdco Inc and its subsidiary American Gemological Laboratories (AGL) through step-down subsidiary IGI USA on January 31, 2026.
Transaction Structure and Financial Details
The acquisition involves IGI USA purchasing 100% stake in AGL Holdco Inc from sellers Christopher P Smith and Helene Smith. The total consideration amounts to USD 13.2 million, structured as follows:
| Payment Component: | Amount (USD) | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Payment: | 9.00 million | At closing, subject to SPA adjustments |
| Deferred Payment: | 4.20 million | Post-closing, subject to conditions |
| Total Consideration: | 13.20 million | Cash consideration |
The transaction is expected to complete within 2 months and does not require any governmental or regulatory approvals. Following completion, AGL Holdco will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of IGI USA and a step-down subsidiary of IGI Belgium and IGI India.
Target Company Profile
American Gemological Laboratories, founded in 1977 and headquartered in New York's gem and jewelry district, specializes in comprehensive colored gemstone analysis. The company has demonstrated consistent growth in recent years:
| Financial Year: | Turnover (USD Million) |
|---|---|
| FY 2022: | 2.95* |
| FY 2023: | 3.10* |
| FY 2024: | 3.85 |
*Based on tax returns
AGL is recognized as a pioneer in the colored gemstone industry, being the first gemological laboratory in the USA to issue country-of-origin reports and the first globally to quantify colored stone quality in a comparative manner. The company provides detailed identification and enhancement reports, country-of-origin reports, and complete colored stone analysis documents for gems of unique importance.
Strategic Rationale and Business Impact
The acquisition creates a comprehensive global certification platform combining IGI's industry-leading scale and infrastructure with AGL's specialized expertise in colored gemstones. Key strategic benefits include:
- Market Expansion: IGI gains access to the fast-growing colored gemstone segment and expands its addressable market
- Revenue Diversification: The transaction diversifies IGI's revenue streams beyond its traditional diamond certification business
- Global Reach: AGL will gain access to IGI's global infrastructure to expand colored gemstone certification services beyond the US market
- Scientific Excellence: The combined entity will leverage AGL's deep scientific expertise and pioneering leadership in colored gemstones
Operational Continuity and Leadership
Christopher Smith will continue as President and Chief Gemologist of AGL, ensuring business continuity and maintaining the laboratory's scientific independence. AGL will remain headquartered in New York and operate independently under its established brand while benefiting from IGI's global network and resources. No immediate operational changes are planned, with both organizations committed to maintaining existing technical standards and client service levels.
Market Positioning
The transaction strengthens strategic linkages between the United States, the world's largest market for fine jewelry and colored gemstones, and India, a global hub for gemstone manufacturing and certification. The combined platform positions the group to serve the global gemstone trade with enhanced scale, scientific capability, and geographic reach, addressing evolving market demands for provenance, transparency, and consistency in gemstone certification.

































