The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) today introduced its Diamond Country of Origin Report to the Indian market at a special event held at the ongoing India International Jewellery Show (IIJS Premiere 2019).

The new offering was unveiled by N Anantha Padmanabhan, Chairman, Gem & Jewellery Council (GJC) in the presence of Tom Moses, Executive Vice President and Chief Research and Laboratory Officer of GIA, Colin Shah, Vice-chairman, GJEPC and Shankaar Sen, Vice-chairman, GJC at a function attended by a large number of leading jewellers from different parts of India.

Apoorva Deshingkar, Country Head – Business Development, GIA India & Middle East, speaking on behalf of the organisation in the absence of Ms Nirupa Bhatt, MD, told the jewellers that the diamond origin reports were the latest offering from GIA and would help build consumer confidence in diamond jewellery.

Tom Moses elaborated on the significance of this new type of report, which had been launched internationally earlier this year. He explained some of the major features which would help consumers know the geographical origin of a particular polished diamond by matching it to an original piece of rough using physical measurements and other scientific data.

The GIA Diamond Origin Report confirms the country of origin of a polished diamond and includes a full assessment of the diamond’s 4Cs along with a plotted diagram of its clarity characteristics, and a report number laser inscription.

GIA said that it has already processed thousands of rough diamonds ranging from 0.15 carats up to more than 100 carats. A growing number of miners, manufacturers and retailers are participating in the Diamond Origin Report programme.

In a statement to the media a few days before the launch, Nirupa Bhatt had said, “This new service will help retailers provide peace-of-mind to a consumer before they purchase. The origin information and many other marketing and training materials that GIA has made available can be used by jewellers to build trust and credibility with customers. Jewellery manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers can visit our booth at the show and experience the journey of a diamond using the GIA Diamond Origin Report.”