GSI'S HIGH-TECH ONLINE TOOLS HELPED DRIVE 2008 WEB TRAFFIC

NEW YORK, Jan. 15 – Four years ago, Gemological Science International (GSI) built the most customer-focused, technologically advanced laboratory and website in the gem lab industry, according to its Executive Vice President Debbie Azar. "As our reputation among the trade and consumers has grown, that technology strategy paid off in significant traffic increase to GSI's website in 2008."

"We are still the only lab that offers a digital report with plotting that retailers can load onto their servers to share with their customers 24/7 - or on some websites can be accessed directly by consumers" said Ms. Azar. "We also have the unique ability to track the progress of our customers' goods in the lab in real time."

GSI believes that these one-of-a-kind customer-centric online tools helped to drive the dramatic increase in its website traffic over the past year. "That and the consumer's thirst for information and verification," said Ms. Azar. "They are asking us more questions about grading reports, the 4Cs, and our Virtual Vault™ security service. Today, especially with the Internet, everyone expects some kind of verification."

Virtual Vault™ is one of GSI' services geared toward consumers. Virtual Vault™ consumers can register their GSI grading report numbers for a one-time fee, and the data can be easily accessed online in the event their report or jewelry is lost or stolen.

"It's all about giving our customers immediate access to the information when they need it and where they need it," said Ms. Azar.

The lab plans to add more benefits for its customers in the first quarter of this year by increasing its online presence. GSI plans to launch series of "minisites" dedicated to specific GSI services.

About GSI GSI is a full-service gem lab whose clients are mainly large manufacturers, major jewelry chains, department stores, and online jewelers. It is headquartered in New York City’s Diamond District at 581 Fifth Avenue and has an office in Mumbai, India. Visit www.gemscience.net or call Debbie Azar at 212-207-4140 Ext. 202.