IDL launches lab in Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey is the new launch pad for International Diamond Laboratories (IDL) services. The lab, which is promoted by Dubai Multi Commodities Centre, became a pioneer for the region, by opening the first full fledged facility in Istanbul, offering its internationally recognised diamond grading services. The lab will operate from the IKO headquarters in the center of the diamond and jewelry district of Istanbul.

The launch was announced at an event, amidst a meeting with IDL’s international Board of Directors in Istanbul - Ahmed bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman of DMCC, Dr. David Rutledge, CEO of DMCC, Ian White, former Sales Director of DTC, Peter Gross, former Global Head of the ABN Amro Diamond and Jewelry Group and Peter Meeus, former Managing Director of HRD. “Considering Turkey’s leading position as a jewellery manufacturing centre and its growing consumer market for high quality diamond jewelry, entering the Turkish market is an important step for us,” said Peter Meeus, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of IDL. Sales of rough diamonds in Turkey stand around $600 million while the consumption of diamond jewellery is around $1.2 billion and of diamonds has risen around 25 percent annually. “Since IDL reports are a mark of trust and objectivity, consumers can rest assured that their diamond purchases are of the desired quality and retailers offering IDL certificates will have an extra edge.”

The diamond and gem community in the region can avail of IDL’s diamond grading certificates, which assert the quality and value of the diamond and diamond jewellery. The lab undertakes automated colour grading process through its IDL Color Meter™, to cut out the human error in color grading, providing accuracy and consistency. “IDL’s entry is a sign that the market is maturing and consumers and retailers are becoming more aware of the importance of diamond grading certificates” said Allaattin Kameroclu, President of IKO, which represents 6000 wholesalers and retailers from the Istanbul region.

In addition to its lab, IDL will support the region’s trade community with specialised diamond education programmes. It recently conducted an advanced programme in diamond grading in Istanbul which saw 12 successful candidates graduate, who received their diploma at the launch event.