I love when I write about something and then " bam!" see it again on the Internet. Not too long ago I was touting the virtues of taking web-based class from the Gemology Institute of America (GIA), an internationally recognized institutions known as one of the leaders in the gem and jewelry industry.

Then low and behold, I find out that they now have expanded and will soon be offering full B.A. degrees in jewelry, specifically a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Jewelry program. The new program starts in September 2006.

National Jewelry reports: " While some universities offer degrees in metal and jewelry arts, an Internet search for BBA programs specific to jewelry returned no results. [Mink] Stavenga believes this is the first time this specific program has been made available.

"I don't believe there are any others which is quite surprising, because if you look at other industries like the hotel, restaurant and tourism fields, they have for decades educated future leaders in that industry," he says.

Since 2003, GIA has offered a program in Jewelry Business Management, which will still be offered, while the BBA is the next step in helping to professionalize the jewelry industry, says GIA Marketing Manager Dana Meyer. In a fast-changing industry, she says business training has become even more important for those who wish to make jewelry a career."

The school is already starting to accept applications. You can read more about the program on their web site: http://www.gia.edu/