The International Gemological Institute has opened the first diamond, gemstone, and jewelry certification laboratory in Kolkata—its third laboratory in India.

IGI opened its first laboratory in Mumbai in 1999 and now services diamond traders, jewelers, and jewelry brands across the country. The second IGI India laboratory, also in Mumbai, is located in the Santacruz Electronics Export Processing Zone.

The Kolkata market today accounts for approximately 11 percent of the total Indian diamond consumption. IGI said jewelers across the region have expressed a need for its services.

Another facet to IGI Kolkata is its 30-year-old School of Gemology and the introduction of programs for gem and jewelry enthusiasts starting with the Polished Diamond Grading course.

JCK