GIA Gemkit

GIA is a four-episode animated series born from the collaboration between the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and Samsa Studio. The series blends adventure, science, and magic to explore the fascinating world of gems and minerals, featuring content grounded in GIA’s deep scientific knowledge—and a visual and narrative proposal crafted by its creator, Samsa Studio.

The story follows Gemma, the brave guardian of the Treasure Museum, who embarks on an unforgettable adventure during a mysterious full moon night. Joined by new friends, she discovers how the Earth’s natural processes create unique treasures like diamonds, sapphires, and many more.

Designed for children around the age of 12, this series sparks curiosity and entertains, inviting viewers to uncover the secrets of the Earth through a marvelous story filled with wonder and discovery.

Credits

Project Direction: Juan David Zuluaga Casas
Script: Jimena Avila Garcia
Project Manager: Jimena Avila Garcia
General Production: Francisco Gilges, Juan David Zuluaga.
Art Direction: Laura Acevedo Ruiz, Sabi Gomez.
Infographic Design: Arled Valencia
Animation Direction: Stiven Lopez
Animation: Azul Laranga, Alejandro Menendez Guerrero, Luis Mejia, Mauricio Palacio, Stiven López
Sound Design: Benjamín Corredor
GIA Team: Jami Glassman, Kristin Bonine, Hilary Dell, Fernando Campos

What is GIA?

GIA is an audiovisual initiative consisting of an animated series developed in collaboration between the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and Samsa Studio. This partnership combines GIA’s scientific and thematic expertise—recognized as the world’s foremost authority on diamonds, colored stones, and pearls—with the creativity and animation talent of Samsa Studio.

As a nonprofit organization, GIA is dedicated to advancing knowledge, standards, and education in the field of gems and jewelry. Its mission includes offering educational programs for careers in jewelry design, appraisal, and sales; conducting groundbreaking gemological research; and providing laboratory services for impartial evaluation and identification.

Through this collaboration, the series aims to make this knowledge accessible to children in a playful way, promoting curiosity, transparency, and trust in the world of gems and jewelry. The content blends science, magic, and adventure. Distribution takes place through Samsa Studio’s website as well as during GIA’s school visits, where the series is screened in academic settings—bringing the knowledge of gems and minerals to students around the world.

Episode #1 “Meet Gemma & Friends”

On a full moon night, Gemma wakes up to start her nightly rounds at the museum, when suddenly, she hears voices. Who could it be?

Episode #2 “Talk Rocks With Rocky”

Gemma and her friends meet Rocky, who introduces them to the fascinating world of the Rock Cycle.

Episode #3 “The Magical of Minerals”

The group grows larger as they encounter Aquamarine, who introduces them to her mineral friends and their unique characteristics.

Episode #4 “Gemma's Sparkling Gem Spots”

Gemma learns how our favorite jewelry pieces are made and discovers her birthstone. The magic of her friends fills Gemma with color, dressing her in the brilliance of their world.