Indian Institute of Gems & Jewellery organised a three-day training programme in gold jewellery appraisal techniques for officers of one of India’s leading banks- ICICI Bank. Around 21 officers including branch managers of the bank’s Maharashtra and Gujarat operations attended the programme from 22nd August 2012 to 24th August 2012, at Indian Institute of Gems & Jewellery, Mumbai.

The programme informed on aspects of identifying false gold from real gold, a matter of importance for banks when sanctioning loans against gold jewellery. With the aid of practical tests, identification of different karatages of gold jewellery was explained. Assaying techniques and their comparison was discussed with practical demonstrations. All possible combinations of testing gold by the acid and touchstone method were carried out by the participants. Demonstration of the specific gravity method was also conducted.

An objective exam was given at the end of the course, for assessment of individual performance after which certificates were issued.