Diamond technical education in Surat

Updated on: Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Surat: The Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the world's foremost authority in gemology, has decided to work with Surat Diamond Association (SDA) and Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) to promote greater gemological education in the world's biggest diamond cutting and polishing centre in Surat. The aim is to develop and retain talent in the industry.

"We want to bring world-class gemological education offered by GIA to Surat's doorsteps. We are working closely with diamond companies and the trade and industry bodies for providing jewellery training of international standard to retailers and gemological education to the young professionals wanting to enter the industry," said Nirupa Pandya Bhatt managing director of GIA's India and Middle East operations.

The GIA India, which is participating in the gems and jewellery exhibition Sparkle-09', is planning to work with SDA and the Indian Diamond Institute (IDI) to develop courses that establish and meet heightened requirements for the gems and jewellery industry in Surat. Also, the institute has planned to conduct two-month gemology courses in diamond grading and diamond assortment in the city starting from January 25, 2010 in the city.

Bhatt said, "The purpose is to raise gemological education standards in Surat, and therefore, strengthen the industry here. Until now, students aspiring for gemological education from GIA had to travel all the way to the US. But now, the GIA India is offering accredited diploma programmes at Mumbai that are recognised internationally as hallmark professional credentials."

Rohit Mehta president of SDA said, "Surat, the diamond hub of the world, has established it's leadership position with world class manufacturing facilities. Now, GIA's presence in Surat in education and grading services will offer huge opportunity to enhance the skill base in the industry."

Diamond technical education in Surat

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