Over 10,000 people in more than 110 countries, literally “from Australia to Zambia”, enrolled in more than 25,000 introductory online GIA Essentials courses, benefitting from the Institute’s offer of no-cost classes with start dates in May and June, GIA said in a release yesterday.

The demand exceeded expectations and classes for the two-month period were filled to capacity by May 20, making it necessary for the GIA to close the offer and stop accepting new applications and enrollments, the institute said.

“This incredible response demonstrates the broad interest in GIA education and credentials,” said Duncan Pay, GIA senior vice president of education and chief academic officer. “In a very short time, more than three times the usual annual number of people enrolled in the GIA Essentials classes.”

The institute added that GIA Essentials courses starting in July and later are available at the regular tuition of US$250 for each course.

“During these challenging times, we were able to offer thousands of people in more than 110 countries from Australia to Zambia the opportunity to explore what GIA education has to offer,” said Susan Jacques, GIA president and CEO. “Helping so many people new to or within the gem and jewelry industry through education is the foundation of our consumer-protection mission. We are delighted with the incredible response from those wishing to further their education and those rekindling their passion for gemology.”

The no-cost offer gave new students the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of gems and jewellery. Eligible courses included Jewelry Essentials, Colored Stone Essentials and Diamond Essentials. By completing all three courses, students can earn the GIA Applied Jewelry Professional™ (AJP) diploma, the institute said.