Our History

Founded by Mr. Charles Carmona in Los Angeles, California, GUILD marked the beginning of a new era in gemological education.

Founder Charles Carmona published The Complete Handbook for Gemstone Weight Estimation, which became an essential global reference for colored gemstone professionals.

GUILD founder Charles Carmona was appointed Gemology Consultant by the World Bank, assisting in establishing gemstone laboratories in Madagascar and Tanzania.

GUILD Gem Laboratory (Shenzhen) was officially established, becoming the first international brand laboratory to enter China and carried out standardized research

GUILD Gem Laboratory (Hong Kong) was established to promote the exchange and synchronization between the Chinese market and the international colored gemstone market

Teamed up with CDTEC and released the trade name - Verdant Green, for top emeralds color.

GUILD pioneered the world's first single-gemstone course—Emerald Identification and Evaluation—setting new benchmarks in specialized gemological education.

Renowned field gemologist and Mine-to-Market pioneer Andrew Lucas joined GUILD, strengthening the institution's academic and field expertise.

GUILD launched its first Colombia Field Study Program, offering immersive learning experiences in major emerald mining areas such as Muzo and Chivor.

Held 29 master classes, inviting 47 international industry leaders from 17 countries on 5 continents to share market trends, with a total live broadcast time of over 100 hours

GUILD expanded its curriculum with advanced programs including Ruby & Sapphire Identification, Advanced Emerald Evaluation, and Pearl Identification and Grading.

GUILD leadership conducted an in-depth field visit to the Panjshir Valley, gaining firsthand insight into Afghanistan's gemstone mining regions.

GUILD Gem Laboratory (Bangkok) was officially established to provide fast and professional identification services to international professional buyers and distributors.

Guild Gem Laboratories released the worlds's first identification service for Colombian emeralds Muzo, Chivor, Gachala and other specific mines.

Andrew Lucas published Gemstone Journeys: From Mine to Market, the first anthology of field gemology featuring 12 expedition narratives.

GUILD introduced the Colored Gemstone Identification and Evaluation Course, covering spinel, garnet, aquamarine, and other key gemstones.

GUILD launched the English academic journal Gemology Frontier, covering the full range of content from mines and laboratories to markets

GUILD launched the "Santa Maria" color standard for aquamarine, which became a synonym for high quality aquamarine.

Andrew Lucas authored The Field Gemology Handbook, distilling 30 years of fieldwork into an authoritative guide for gemologists worldwide.

GUILD solidified its leadership in gemological education, expanding global influence through innovative academic programs and partnerships.

GUILD released the trade name "Aurora" for freshwater pearls

GUILD held the first Aurora Award International Gem and Jewelry Competition, inviting 18 global industry leaders as master judges

GUILD Gem Laboratory Zhuji sample collection center was established

GUILD established a long-term partnership with Gemfields, co-hosting emerald and ruby masterclasses across major cities in China for six consecutive years.

GUILD launched its alumni network, bringing together industry leaders and experts to exchange insights on colored gemstone market trends.

GUILD gemologists conducted extensive field research in Pakistan, visiting major gem trading centers such as Peshawar and Mingora.

Invited by Paspaley, GUILD gemologists conducted field studies at South Sea pearl farms across northern Australia.

Founder Charles Carmona received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Society of Appraisers, recognizing his lifelong contributions to gemology.

GUILD launched the Jadeite Identification and Grading Course, expanding its expertise across key gem categories.

GUILD introduced the Advanced Emerald Identification and Grading Course in Taiwan, extending its educational reach in Asia.

GUILD leadership visited Guatemala, the Philippines, Japan, Kazakhstan, Brazil, Madagascar, and Zambia to gather and share firsthand source insights and market updates with students.

GUILD introduced the Quartz Identification and Grading Course, further diversifying its gemology education offerings.