The International Gemological Institute (IGI) held a Polished Diamond Grading Course in Chennai, which churned a healthy participation with professional from interests in retail, manufacturing, gem enthusiasts, and beginners attending from various locations in South India including Trichy, Madurai, Pondicherry, Tuticorin and Chennai. The course was conducted in joint efforts with Madras Jewellers and Diamond Merchants Association, between 31 January to 5 February, 2011.

The course was a short practical grading programme, wherein the 22 participants learnt intricacies of diamond grading, through topics like the diamond 4C’s, treatments, synthetics and pricing. Members of GJF attended the programme briefing on benefits of International Grading.

Mr Tehmasp Printer, Managing Director, IGI, says ‘IGI focuses on educating and imparting knowledge, which raises awareness across the board. This leads to greater transparency and instills buying confidence in consumers. We wish to serve the industry better by giving the industry a set of informed and trained professionals.”

Mr Jayantilal Challani, President of MJDMA said ‘MJDMA along with IGI has conducted 3 courses in Chennai already and we have seen an overwhelming response for the same. They have ensured individual attention to the students and cover every detail keeping in mind the quality consciousness of the South market.”