GIA Launches New Taiwan Campus, First to Offer Graduate Gemologist Program in Chinese

Expanded Educational Hub Opens in Taipei

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has officially opened its new GIA School of Gemology and Jewelry Arts campus in Taipei, Taiwan, on March 29, 2026. This marks a significant expansion of GIA’s educational offerings, building upon its established presence in Taiwan since 1991.

The new campus boasts a central location, easily accessible from the Zhongxiao Xinsheng MRT station and offering convenient access to major hubs like Taipei Main Station, the Xinyi District, and the Zhongshan commercial area. This strategic positioning aims to serve both local students and attract international talent.

Unique Chinese Language Program

A key feature of the new Taiwan campus is its distinction as the only GIA location worldwide offering the Graduate Gemologist diploma program with full instruction in Chinese. This move is designed to make GIA’s renowned gemological education more accessible to a broader audience.

“Education is the foundation of GIA, and it is crucial that we prepare each new generation of gem and jewelry professionals with the education, skills, and experience needed to thrive and succeed within the industry,” stated GIA President and CEO Pritesh Patel. “Our new campus in Taiwan will allow us to expand our education services and resources on a local and global scale.”

Flexible Learning Opportunities

In addition to the unique Chinese language program, the campus will provide flexible learning options, including weekend and evening classes. This initiative is tailored to accommodate the needs of prospective students and working professionals, enabling them to pursue gemological education without compromising their existing commitments.

Cathryn Ramirez, GIA Chief Learning Officer, highlighted the significance of this development: “Our Taiwan school is unique in that it will be the only GIA school worldwide offering full Chinese language instruction of the Graduate Gemologist diploma program.” She also expressed excitement about other upcoming GIA school expansions, mentioning a new location in London and an expansion of the New York campus.

Grand Opening Ceremony

The grand opening ceremony on March 29 was a notable event, attended by key figures in the gem and jewelry industry. GIA President and CEO Pritesh Patel and Chief Learning Officer Cathryn Ramirez were present, alongside Vivian Po-Yun Wang, Director of the GIA Taiwan Campus; Jing-Wen Tian, President of the GIA Alumni Association Taiwan Chapter; and Chien-Min Tseng, Chairman of the Jewelry & Gold Association of the Republic of China.

The event featured traditional performances, including a lion dance, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, and a campus tour. Following the official opening, the GIA Taiwan Alumni Chapter hosted a seminar and meeting, with remarks from Nicole Garcia, GIA Executive Director of Alumni Development and Alumni Relations, concluding with a banquet.