GIA Expands Into Watchmaking Education With FHH Partnership

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is expanding its education offering into watchmaking through a new partnership with the Fondation Haute Horlogerie (FHH). Jeweller Magazine

From early 2027, GIA students will be able to access FHH Academy programmes at GIA campuses around the world, beginning with the entry-level Watch Advisor certification. The courses cover watchmaking fundamentals, culture and heritage, alongside more advanced technical subjects. Jeweller Magazine

Dedicated tutors will also run open sessions introducing watchmaking within students’ existing gemmology and jewellery studies. GIA says the move reflects the close relationship between horology and the wider gem and jewellery industry. Jeweller Magazine

FHH brings considerable experience to the partnership. Since 2014, it has trained more than 50,000 people and certified over 18,000 across 20 countries. The first initiative from the collaboration is scheduled for October 2026, ahead of the wider programme rollout in 2027.