Surat diamantaires turn to 3D photography for better exports

In fact, according to Surat-based diamantaires, the technology is helping them to save at least 15-20% of costs as well as reach out to more number of international buyers

In a bid to attract more international buyers at lower costs, the Surat diamond industry is increasingly turning towards 3D photography technology. According to diamantaires and polishers alike in Surat, use of 3D photography enables them to send 100 per cent 360 degree image of polished and cut diamonds to prospective buyers, thereby saving travel time and cost.

In fact, according to Surat-based diamantaires, the technology is helping them to save at least 15-20 per cent of costs as well as reach out to more number of international buyers.

"We have begun using the technology over the last one year and have seen reduction in costs by around 15-20 per cent. While certification helps, a 360 degree image of the finished product works wonder in attracting international buyers. Our business too has grown significantly over the last one year," said Sanket Shah of Surat-based Necklace Diamond Pvt. Ltd.

The 3D photography providers too state that the technology is witnessing growing acceptance among industry players. In fact, according to Litan Yahav, Co-Founder & CEO of Segoma Imaging Technologies·, such has been the interest among diamantaires in Surat that some ·large manufacturers would prefer to have a Segoma location in Surat.

"We offer our technology as a service, therefore the only cost from our customer's side is the cost per photographing each stone. This cost is less than 0.01 per cent of the stone's value. Moreover, once they Segoma their stones, they are displayed to buyers from around the world expanding the operation globally and instantly," said Yahav.

The Segoma technology comprises of an automatic machine for photographing 3D images of diamonds and an online trading platform for the display and sale of diamonds based entirely on Segoma images.

Considering the demand, the company is planning to set up shop in Surat. "Segoma is currently not present in Surat, but with plans to expand there and establish an additional service center in the near future.·Since the response in Mumbai is good ,many traders who are based in Surat are approaching us to use our technology for their business," said Yahav, adding that Segoma has photographed more than 200,000 diamonds and jewelry since it has begun its operation in Mumbai. During 2015, Segoma plans to photographed more than twice this amount.

Meanwhile, according to a member of the Surat Diamond Association (SDA), with each passing the technology adoption among diamantaires is growing by 25-30 per cent.