Three trade bodies – the Israel Diamond Exchange (IDE), the Israel Diamond Manufacturers Association (IsDMA) and the Israel Diamond Institute (IDI) – have come together to set up an ultra-modern diamond manufacturing unit that will function both as a shared facility for independent diamond manufacturers who wish to use the hi-tech machines as well as training a new generation of diamond cutters.

The Modern Manufacturing Center (MMC), as it is known, is equipped with the latest sawing and laser cutting machinery, Sarin and OGI decision making technology, and also Sarin's Galaxy 2000 for rough diamond analysis. The MMC will be officially inaugurated during the International Diamond Week, February 8-12, 2015.

"The IDE, IsDMA and IDI all saw the need for a top-rate training facility for a new generation of diamond cutters and polishers,” said YoramDvash, Chairman of the IDE's Industry and Marketing Committee. “It was born both out of necessity, as well out of a sense of unity between our industry bodies."

"In Israel, we are taking initiatives in manufacturing that most of us thought was no longer possible. The MMC is an important tool to help us rebuild a well-trained and motivated core group of highly professional cutters and polishers.

Commenting on the initiative, IDE President ShmuelSchnitzer said that the MMC was important in the context of changes taking place in the industry and trade, particularly in relation to competitiveness in manufacturing. "In Israel, we are taking initiatives in manufacturing that most of us thought was no longer possible. The MMC is an important tool to help us rebuild a well-trained and motivated core group of highly professional cutters and polishers.