IADC to close in October

The Indo Argyle Diamond Council (IADC) programme is set to end in October 2008, after being in operation for 15 years. The IADC was an exclusive programme designed to promote the scale and expertise of Indian jewellery manufacturing capable to produce high-quality, sellable diamond jewellery with price points from the high-end to mass market of the U.S.

The programme was open to participation only through membership and by invitation. In the 15 years, the IADC has enrolled 65 members with many being associated with it for four to 10 years. The Council believes it has achieved its objective of promoting the scope of Indian jewellery manufacturing in the US, as is evident with the increase of jewellery exports from India to North America. India has exported US$2.3 billion worth of finished jewellery in 2007, a growth from around US$300 million in 1994.

"It is with gratification that we announce the closure of the extremely successful IADC programme at the conclusion of its 15th year in December 2008. 15 years ago when we developed the concept for the IADC, at the urging of Argyle Diamonds, later to become Rio Tinto Diamonds, we had a vision for the future of this industry and that vision has become a reality. Initial sponsorship of the program by Rio Tinto Diamonds enabled the programme to come into existence and their continuing sponsorship and support helped keep the IADC on target for these many years”, says Marty Hurwitz, Chief Executive Officer of MVI Marketing Ltd., the owners of the IADC.

The IADC has been supported with Andrew Wagstaff, Nirupa Bhatt as marketing managers. It has had as programme directors - Johanna Trotter and the team of Keith Dillmeier and Manny Reboredo. “Their leadership over the years has enabled members to develop the product, knowledge and ability to sell any U.S. retailer they desire," said Liz Chatelain, President of MVI Marketing. The IADC closes shop on a satisfactory note.