Natarajan, who previously served as Managing Director of GIA India Laboratory Private Limited, assumed his new role in early August at GIA’s world headquarters in Carlsbad, California, reporting to GIA President and CEO Pritesh Patel.

In this capacity, Natarajan will oversee global laboratory operations, including diamond grading and jewellery services, and shape the vision and strategy for GIA’s expanding laboratory network.

“Ram is a dynamic leader closely attuned to GIA’s mission and the needs of our laboratory clients,” said Pritesh Patel, President and CEO, GIA. “As we continue to introduce new technologies and processes to advance efficiency, and develop new laboratory products and services, his expertise, insight and experience will be invaluable.”

Natarajan joined GIA India in 2017 as Vice President of Laboratory Operations and was elevated to Managing Director in 2020. In that role, he led education and laboratory initiatives across India, drawing on more than three decades of international operational and leadership experience.

“It is an honor to take on responsibility for overseeing GIA’s gemological laboratories,” Natarajan said. “I look forward to working with our teams and clients to deliver high-quality laboratory services and uphold the standards of excellence that GIA is known for.”

GIA said a new Managing Director for GIA India Laboratory Private Limited will be announced in the fourth quarter of 2025.