New Diamond Grading Course For Jewellers

Published on 05/08/08

The growing consumer taste for items such as diamond necklaces, diamond stud earrings and diamond pendants has persuaded the International Gemological Institute (IGI) to offer a new course for jewellers.

According to Diamond Intelligence Briefs, the IGI's new diamond grading course is being offered in association with the Istanbul Diamond Exchange as part of a cooperative education agreement.

Gold is a traditional wedding gift in Turkey, but the escalating trend for consumers to enrich their jewellery with diamonds necessitates a renewed focus on quality, the industry bodies claim.

Oguzhan Aloglu, vice-president of the Istanbul Gold Exchange, said that the consumption of diamonds in the country is rising at some 25 per cent annually, especially among young people.

"The IGI School of Gemology prides itself on intensive and hands-on learning methods, resulting in a high level of competency and expertise," commented Roland Lorie, chief executive officer of IGI.

Established in Antwerp, New York, the IGI states that it is the world's largest independent gem certification and appraisal institute.