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GAA CODE OF ETHICS AND CONDUCT

The Code of Ethics and Conduct sets out the professional standards and responsibilities expected of all Fellows and State Association members of the Gemmological Association of Australia (GAA). It is designed to ensure that the actions and conduct of members uphold the integrity, reputation, and trustworthiness of the Association, and that the interests of consumers and the public are treated with the highest priority.

The Code provides guidance on matters such as honesty in the representation of gemstones, impartiality in professional advice, confidentiality, and professional interactions with colleagues and the public. Compliance with the Code is mandatory, and breaches may result in the loss of membership, loss of Fellowship, or other legal action. Members are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the Code and apply its principles consistently in all gemmological practice.

Bylaws of the Federal Council, Appendix B September 2025

  1. The Code of Ethics and Conduct shall apply to all Fellows and State Association members of the Gemmological Association of Australia.
  2. The ethics and conduct of Fellows and State Association members is to be such as to uphold the reputation of the GAA. Their responsibility to the consumers is to be of paramount importance.
  3. No state association member is to conduct themself in a manner that creates disharmony or is detrimental to the reputation of the GAA, its State Associations, sub-committees, officers or members of the State Divisions.
  4. Fellows and State Association members shall avoid, and discourage, unsubstantiated statements, misleading descriptions (of gems, synthetic and imitation material), and seek to present correct information with truth and impartiality.
  5. Fellows and State Association members shall endeavour to explain fully, to members of the public, consumers and those untrained in Gemmology, the meaning and importance of gemmological terms and names, especially where these relate to a financial transaction (i.e. buying and selling of gem materials).
  6. Fellows and State Association members may not use, for personal gain, nor disclose, confidential information arising out of work performed for their client or employer. They should not, deliberately or carelessly, express professional opinions likely to adversely affect the reputation, business or prospects of other Fellows, or members of the Association.
  7. If a Fellow or State Association member seriously believes another Fellow or State Association member to be guilty of unethical, illegal or unfair practice, it is their duty to present such information to the Federal Council for consideration; after notifying the other Fellow or State Association member involved in an appropriate manner.
  8. Fellows and State Association members, when engaged in Gemmology, must remain impartial and unbiased at all times and not place themselves under any obligation by means of substantial favours.
  9. Failure to abide by the Code will lead to loss of membership of GAA, and for Fellows, loss of Fellowship, and in the event of continued non-compliance, will lead to legal action.

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