The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) met a delegation from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), led by President and CEO Pritesh Patel, at its Mumbai head office on October 14, 2026, to discuss certification services and priorities for India’s gem and jewellery industry. <Cite refs={["turn771482search0","turn771482search1"]}/>

The discussions focused on improving access to diamond grading and verification services, reducing certification costs and addressing operational challenges faced by Indian manufacturers, exporters and small businesses.

GJEPC proposed establishing a GIA verification service within the Bharat Diamond Bourse (BDB), with a defined timeline. The proposed facility is intended to make diamond verification more accessible and help address cases involving fraudulent diamonds and fake laser inscriptions. <Cite refs={["turn771482search1"]}/>

The Council also called on GIA to expand grading services in India to diamonds of all sizes, including stones above 3.99 carats, as well as fancy-colour diamonds. It highlighted the delays and logistical difficulties associated with sending such stones overseas for grading.

Certification costs were another key issue. GJEPC sought more accessible pricing and discount structures, particularly for small and lower-grade diamonds, to widen access to certification for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). <Cite refs={["turn771482search0","turn771482search1"]}/>

The Council also proposed building on the traditional 4Cs framework — cut, colour, clarity and carat weight — by giving greater emphasis to rarity, traceability, provenance and exclusivity. The objective is to help consumers better understand the distinguishing characteristics and origin-related information associated with natural diamonds. <Cite refs={["turn771482search1"]}/>

The meeting formed part of GIA’s engagement with Indian industry stakeholders during the Board of Governors’ visit. The discussions centred on improving service accessibility and strengthening India’s position in the global gem and jewellery trade.