GSI (Gemological Science International), a leading international gem lab joined hands with The Madras Jewellers & Diamond Merchants' Association (MJDMA) to conduct a seminar at Chennai on “Indian Gem & Jewelry Industry – Issues and Solutions” recently

The programme was split into two sessions. The first was an interactive one-to-one practical session on jewellery grading as well as diamond & coloured stone grading. Discussions covered various themes including certain coloured stone treatments such as glass filling. Participants were shown some glass filled rubies to understand the difference between untreated and treated coloured stones. Some of the participants even checked their own diamond rings under the microscope to view the inclusions and estimate the clarity grade.

The second session began with a presentation covering the issues that the Indian gem and jewellery Industry face on a day-to-day basis. This covered an overview of the Indian market, the role of certification and education to help the industry grow and concluded with a Q&A session.

During the Q&A, discussions focused on certain trade terms used in the Southern Indian market which were explained in details such as Jager diamonds, Doosham in diamonds, understanding Makeable and Sawable diamonds. The solutions presented were helpful for the participants.