The Israel Diamond Institute, a nonprofit organization that aims to promote the Israeli industry, has begun to operate its first international representative office, at 576 47th St. in New York City’s diamond district. The official opening was in early October, in conjunction with the Diamonds by JCK trade show.

The mission of the new office is to expand trade in Israeli diamonds in U.S. markets. It will guide and assist Israeli diamantaires, especially those who do not have their own U.S. presence. In addition, the representation will seek to develop new markets for Israeli goods outside the major cities like New York, Miami, and Los Angeles.

Assaf Katran has been appointed manager of marketing and business development for IDI’s New York office.

IDI is also planning its second office, to be opened in Hong Kong, probably in the first half of 2006.