GIA honours graduates of its first Graduate Diamonds Diploma programme in Dubai

The GIA (Gemological Institute of America) honoured graduating students of its first Graduate Diamonds Diploma programme in Dubai. The graduating class of 10 students were from eight different countries. They were recognized during a special ceremony, which also hosted Amit Dhamani, a member of the GIA Board of Governors and CEO of Dhamani Jewels.“People in the gem and jewelry industry are some of the most passionate people I know. It’s important to keep this passion alive and growing by continuing your education and keeping in touch with classmates through organizations like the GIA alumni association,” said Dhamani.

GIA’s Graduate Diamonds Diploma is a seven-week programme offering knowledge on GIA-created 4Cs (Colour, Cut, Clarity and Carat weight) of diamond quality, diamond grading using the D-Z colour scale, using gemmological equipment to grade and identify diamonds; ways to detect synthetics, treatments, simulants and fracture-filled diamonds; and how to confidently talk on diamonds with suppliers, vendors and customers.

“Supporting the gem and jewellery buying public across the world through education is essential to GIA’s mission, and offering the Graduate Diamonds programme in Dubai is yet another step in the journey to offer regionally-relevant education where ever it is needed,”said Nirupa Bhatt, managing director of GIA in India and Middle East.

GIA’s instructors endeavour to reach the same quality teaching to students of every country. Classroom learning, practical instruction during field trips to companies representing different parts of the industry, including Moreli Gems, CARA Jewels and the Russian Diamond Cutters factory was part of the inaugural Dubai class. GIA is slating its second course in Dubai in April 2014.