Eleven students from backgrounds of retail to wholesale graduated from GIA’s (Gemological Institute of America) Graduate Diamonds (GD) programme in Chennai, the first such GIA offering in the South Indian city. A commencement ceremony was organised with a gathering of prominent members of the Chennai gem and jewellery industry and local trade association officials. The students received their diplomas at the hands of dignitaries. Special guests attending the event included JayanthilalChallani, president of Madras Jewellers& Diamond Merchants' Association (MJDMA); Anand Padmanaban of NAC Jewellers; Babu Immanuel, of OKJ Jewellers and former president of MJDMA;MahaveerBothra, –managing director of White Fire; and Abhay Mehta, managing director of Mehta Jewellery.

The GD Diploma equips students with comprehensive knowledge on GIA’s International Diamond Grading System™, given an in-depth training in the 4Cs of a diamond, advanced gemmological techniques, thus making them ready for prospective employers. The course offers both classroom and hands-on learning through regular market visits, experiencing the journey of gemstones from rough to retail.

“Part of GIA’s mission has included reaching out to key centres across India with quality vocational courses that teach relevant and practical concepts in the gem and jewellery industry,” said Nirupa Bhatt, managing director of GIA India and the Middle East. “Introducing the programmein Bengaluru and now Chennai are positive steps in this direction.”