The American Gem trade Association’s Gem Testing Center laboratory announces the hiring of three internationally acclaimed world famous gemologists: Dr. Lore Kiefert, formerly of the Swiss Gemmological Institute laboratory (SSEF), Richard W. Hughes, noted sapphire author and enhancement expert formerly with Pala International, and John I. Koivula, GIA’s noted inclusions expert, author, and former chief gemologist.

“2004 saw a tremendous growth in demand for the services of the AGTA Gemological Testing Center,” writes Doug Hucker, AGTA’s executive director. “This new demand required a greater capacity to examine and report on the large volume of stones being submitted and in an effort to realize this capability the GTC have searched the world for the best that gemology can offer.”

According to the press release, the GTC is also expanding support staff. “The GTC and its Laboratory Director, Ken Scarratt, are very pleased to welcome three internationally renowned gemologists to the gemological team as well as an important addition to the support team.”

The entire new gemological team will be present at the AGTA GemFair in Tucson this February 2nd – 7th, in the Tucson Convention Center.

JCK