GIA India held the graduation ceremony of Jewelry Design students at its Mumbai campus. Vijay Golecha, owner and jewellery designer, Golecha’s Jewels was the chief guest. Also present at the ceremony were Sriram Natarajan, Managing Director of GIA India, and Apoorva Deshingkar, Senior Director – Education and Market Development, GIA India.

(Seated left-r) Aneri Raichada, GIA Instructor; Sriram Natarajan, Managing Director of GIA India; Vijay Golecha, Owner and Jewellery Designer, Golecha’s Jewels; Rajesh Lakhani, General Manager and Head India Sales of Kiran Gems Pvt. Ltd. and Apoorva Deshingkar, Senior Director – Education and Market Development, GIA India; with graduating students proudly holding their certificates.

Addressing the students, Vijay Golecha shared some personal life lessons and valuable insights into the gem and jewellery industry. He said, “The best thing that has happened to you is that all of you have earned your credential from GIA. All you now need to do is follow your dreams. Equipped with the knowledge gained from GIA, go ahead and pursue them. There are many designers in the industry with far better resources than you, which will give them easy access to precious gemstones and materials. At the end of the day, it is your knowledge and the finesse of your jewellery design that will set you apart.” He encouraged students to “compete with self.” Sriram Natarajan said, “GIA education prepares students to embark on a career in jewellery design and I wish them the best of luck.” Lastly, Apoorva Deshingkar spoke a few words of encouragement to the graduating students.