Forevermark launches US$10 million IIDGR facility in Surat

Main purpose of the facility will be to select and inscribe Forevermark diamonds with the unique serial number that symbolises the Forevermark promise; and to deliver an accurate and reliable grading service for Forevermark diamonds.
Phillippe Mellier and Stephen Lussier at the launch of Surat facility
Phillippe Mellier and Stephen Lussier at the launch of Surat facility

The De Beers Group of Companies, on March 31, 2015, announced the launch of the newest and most technologically advanced Forevermark diamond inscription and grading operation in the world - the International Institute of Diamond Grading and Inscription facility in Surat, India. The facility has been set up at an investment of US$10 million investment and has been equipped with leading proprietary diamond technology.

The facility represents a major investment in Surat, a world-class diamond cutting and polishing centre characterised by skill, innovation and the effective use of technology. Its primary purpose will be to select and inscribe Forevermark diamonds with the unique serial number that symbolises the Forevermark promise; and to deliver an accurate and reliable grading service for Forevermark diamonds. At full capacity it will be able to process US$500 million of diamonds annually.

Commenting on the opening ceremony, Philippe Mellier, Chief Executive, De Beers Group said: “An important investment by De Beers in world-leading technology, which will be an important resource for the Indian diamond trade and will cement Surat’s position at the heart of our industry. While the facility will initially focus on Forevermark grading, we will also look into the potential to widen the service in the future as another way of supporting the surrounding diamond community.”

Also, present at the inauguration was Stephen Lussier, CEO, Forevermark who added: “This facility will offer an improved service for Indian diamantaires and for Forevermark retailers here in India and abroad. We can now envisage a future where polished diamonds from around the world come to Surat to benefit from this world-leading facility. ”


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