During the forthcoming BaselWorld 2009, IGI will for the first time provide a fully equipped, working laboratory for the attendees of this leading industry show. Although the IGI has been a regular participant at the show for over a decade, the new initiative follows a request by the attendees to incorporate a lab so that those stopping by at the IGI can get their items examined by IGI gemologists.

This would also promote consumer confidence during buying and selling at the show. Previously, buyers interested in uncertified stones and jewellery relied only on what was communicated by sellers and/or personal knowledge, often resulting in unfulfilled transactions.

"In this economy, every trade is vital to our industry," stated IGI CEO Roland Lorié. "By offering full IGI laboratory services at BaselWorld, our intent is to support more efficient and successful trades for exhibitors and buyers." The IGI service will certify diamonds, coloured stones and jewellery, assuring buyers of items' characteristics, quality and origin.