Diamond Is The Current Fad, Industry Grew At 18%

The diamond industry in India has grown by almost 18 per cent over the last decade, said Punit Srimal, director, Sindhar Institute of Gemology (Singem) at an awareness workshop on "Gems and Jewellery" organised by the Ficci Ladies' Organisation.

"A survey on consumer trends carried out by Singem research showed that the people are today more aware that diamond-studded jewellery is available even in the Rs 1,000-3,000 range. More and more people are thus buying diamonds as gifts for various occasions," said Srimal.

Singem research also reveals that a rise in cosmopolitan vibrant culture is simultaneous with the fall in gold as the predominant metal in jewellery. "Gold is still flourishing in conservative towns and not so forward looking towns and cities. Gold was always seen as an investment that appreciates over time but over the last decade value of gold has remained stagnant," said Srimal.

Renuka Shah, immediate past president of Singem, said, "The gems and jewellery industry has survived in a recessionary environment." The three-day workshop will cover sessions on diamond history, mining, cutting and polishing process, jewellery designing conceptualisation, basic patterns, design theory, identification of gemstones, pearl theory, grading factors, besides import and export opportunities and new career options in the industry.

Singem, promoted by the Sindhar group offers international programmes in the study of diamonds, gemstones and jewellery.