Gemmological Institute of India, (GII) Mumbai and National Gem Testing Center (NGTC), China, two leading and oldest institutes working in Research and Development in Gemmology, Gem and diamond testing have entered a historical agreement for developing and promoting various technical and trade related aspects concerning the Diamond Industry. This will be of mutual benefit to both the countries.

The LOI was signed by Bakul R. Mehta, Chairman of GII and Ye Zhibin, Director of NGTC at Beijing China on 9^th November, 2017.

The agreement has paved the way for working together to build the scientific and technical collaboration, and agree to mutually exchange their gem expertise, in particular, the mutual exchange concerning gem and Jewellery grading standards, and utilise this expertise in service to the gem and Jewellery industries in both countries. This close collaboration would help both NGTC and GII in strengthening and enhancing gem and Jewellery trade between China and India.

GII and NGTC shall have technical and material collaboration to bring exchange of experience in the form of training course, supporting in acquisition and installation of new materials and equipment, acquisition or donation of sample.

Mehta speaking at the signing stated, “The collaboration will be a step forward in strengthening the trade relations between the two countries especially in Diamond Trade and Industry. This will give a fillip to the exports of diamonds from India to China. The collaboration agreement is aimed at bringing ease in doing business for Trading communities of both countries. This agreement gives opportunity to both institutes a larger area to work not only in India/ China but other Asia Pacific countries of Asia Pacific region.”

Praveenshankar Pandya, Chairman GJEPC said, “China and India plays an important role in the world diamond industry by offering their high class diamond processing, cutting and polishing services. Exchange of technical expertise, equipment and other aspects would not only improve trade between both countries but also help in improving their stand in the global market.”

The LOI signing ceremony was preceded by 2017 China International Academic Conference arranged by NGTC. Dr. M D Sastry, Head R&D, was invited to give a technical talk on “Spectroscopy of natural and synthetic diamonds, powerful diagnostic methodology for detection of synthetic diamonds”. Dr. Sastry also gave a technical presentation to the scientific staff of NGTC.