Former GIA President Boyajian Named MD of World Jewelry Center

Bill Boyajian, former president of Gemological Institute of America (GIA), has been appointed managing director of Probity International's World Jewelry Center (WJC) project.

The Las Vegas WJC will be a global destination complex for consumer jewelry shopping and a business hub serving manufacturers, dealers, trade associations, and wholesalers in the gem, jewelry, and watch industries. Planned as the tallest office building in Las Vegas, the center is slated to open for occupancy by 2010.

“Bill Boyajian’s acceptance to take charge of this most exciting project is another vote of confidence for the city of Las Vegas as a major future destination for the gem and jewelry industry,” said Robert Zarnegin, president and CEO of Probity International.

"Upon announcement of my retirement from GIA, Robert approached me to lead what I believe is the most significant jewelry industry project on the globe," said Boyajian. 

Zarnegin said he expects to bring to the project global jewelry firms. "With its favorable tax structure, and its position as America’s most popular destination, Las Vegas is the perfect place for this exciting new venture.” About 40 million people visit Las Vegas every year.

In addition to Boyajian, WJC have enlisted MVI Marketing Ltd. to provide strategic advisory services.