The International Gemological Institute (IGI) and the Bharat Diamond Bourse (BDB) recently partnered to provide exclusively created courses in grading and jewelry designing for members of the bourse. With the goal of enhancing and updating technical knowledge and skills, the courses will help the local region remain adept as the gem and jewelry industries in India face a futuristic transformation.

“India covers more than 70% of the world’s diamond and jewelry manufacturing, so educating our workforce is of paramount importance,” said IGI India President and Managing Director Tehmasp Printer. “For an industry to move forward, it is important for the key players to be well-informed, skilled and updated — both technically and technologically. With this collaboration between the largest diamond bourse and IGI, we intend to spread the reach of quality education and craftsmanship among our members to work alongside their global counterparts.”

The courses extended to the members of BDB are among IGI’s premium educational offerings of international subject matter. The duration and timing of the classes are planned to help members attend to their professional commitments while studying. “This venture with IGI will give our workforce the confidence it needs to help the industry grow. The need to be up to date on current industry trends is dire in today’s market, and courses like these will ensure BDB members are highly-trained and skilled,” remarked Mehul Shah, vice president, BDB.

Among the courses offered, the Polished Diamond Grading Course is the most sought after alongside the Accelerated Jewelry Design Course, specializing in CAD creations. With equal preference placed on theoretical and practical learning, IGI makes the coursework a holistic process for the participants. The Institute is also conducting a five day BDB–IGI Diamond Workshop on the 4 Cs, grading processes, identification and the growth pattern of lab grown diamonds exclusively for BDB members.