Nirupa Pandya Bhatt will join the Gemological Institute of America as its managing director for India and the Middle East, effective Jan. 1, 2008. 

Bhatt will be responsible for GIA expansion in India, Israel, and Dubai, providing on-site management and in-country guidance for the set-up and operation of the India Laboratory, the Dubai School, and similar future projects, including GIA educational offerings in Israel. Bhatt will provide direct oversight to the GIA schools in Dubai and India and their respective school directors.

“We are delighted to have Nirupa join GIA,” said Donna Baker, GIA president who made the announcement Monday. “In her new role, she will help our organization further its mission to protect the public by establishing and expanding GIA’s international standards in India and the Middle East.”

GIA’s research work will be leveraged by Bhatt and her team in the GIA India Laboratory to help identify and disclose the gemological character of diamonds, whether natural, treated, or synthetic, thus ensuring the public trust in gems and gemology on an increasingly global scale, GIA said.

On Oct. 5, Bhatt was recognized by the India Gem & Jewellery Export Council for her distinguished service to the gems and jewelry industry. 

Prior to joining GIA, was with Rio Tinto Diamonds. 

Bhatt has received many honors for her achievements including the “Doyenne of the Year” award from the U.S.-based Indian Diamond and Colorstone Association (IDCA) in 2002; the “Eminent Personality of the Year” award from The Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council in 2003; and the Women’s Jewelry Association’s “Award for Excellence” under the category of Special Services & Education in 2005.

JCK