The International Gemological Institute (IGI), Greece, awarded the IGI Diploma in Polished Diamond Grading. to its first batch of 14 graduating students of its Polished Diamond Grading class. The six-day course was jointly organized with well-known Greek gemologist and former IGI student, George Spyromilios. Slated between November 14-19 in the center of Athens, at the Electra Palace Hotel, the course was led by Jean Mangnay, IGI worldwide head of education, and aimed to provide Athenian trade professionals with advanced knowledge of international grading standards.

The course involved studies on grade clarity, color and cut of diamonds using myriad diamond samples as well as gemological equipment, including microscopes, ultimately equipping the student to identify, grade and understand diamonds according to world grading and market standards.

The students hailed from Athens, other main cities such as Thessaloniki and Crete Island, with majority of them being jewellers seeking further education to boost sales.

“We at IGI recognize the importance of gemological education in burgeoning markets such as Athens,” stated IGI CEO Roland Lorié. “Graduates from IGI’s School of Gemology possess valuable skills that directly translate to consumer confidence – something IGI works persistently to ensure.”

Following the success of its first class, IGI plans hosting a second Polished Grading Class in Athens in early 2011 and has already enrolled some students.