Editor’s Note
This interview highlights the International Gemological Institute’s (IGI) pivotal role in establishing and upholding certification standards, particularly in key markets like India. The discussion underscores the critical importance of independent, objective verification in building consumer trust and ensuring transparency across both natural and lab-grown diamond sectors.
Key Points from the Interview
- IGI, founded in 1975 in Antwerp, expanded globally, introducing vital certification practices in India since 1999.
- Credibility is maintained through independent, objective certification for both natural and lab-grown diamonds.
- Independent certification is crucial, especially in emerging markets like India, where transparency is in high demand.
- From three gemologists in 1999 to 900-1,000 professionals in 2023, IGI’s turnover reached $77 million.
- IGI is India’s largest certification company with over 50% market share. Globally, IGI commands over 65% market share in lab grown diamond certification and are the second largest diamond certification company in the world.
- IGI educates consumers and certifies both natural and lab-grown diamonds to ensure fair pricing.
- Collaborations with leading global jewelry brands ensure IGI-certified solitaires, maintaining high standards and transparency.
- Millennials and Gen Z drive demand for affordable, certified lab-grown diamonds, with IGI certifying both types.
- IGI offers specialized certification for colored stones, emphasizing grading and origin for transparency.
- Advanced technologies like Raman spectroscopy and photoluminescence keep IGI at the forefront of gemological certification.
- The D-Show, held in Mumbai on April 17th-18th, 2025, is a B2B platform for networking and building lasting relationships.
- Ethical sourcing, traceability, and digital transformation are key trends shaping the future of the diamond industry.
- IGI’s commitment to integrity, accuracy, and consistency ensures consumer trust in certified diamonds.
In an ever-evolving landscape characterized by innovation and changing consumer preferences, the gem and jewelry industry stands on the brink of transformation. As diamonds shine brighter in popular culture, the need for trustworthy certification has become paramount. In this exclusive interview, Gurbir Singh Gulati, Editor-in-Chief of IFAB Media, speaks with Tehmasp Printer, CEO of the International Gemological Institute (IGI). Together, they delve into the significance of independent gemological reports, the evolution of lab-grown diamonds, and the future of the diamond market in India.
The gem and jewelry industry, especially with diamonds, has seen shifts in certification practices over the years. Can you give us a brief overview of IGI’s journey and its role in these changes?
“In the world of gemology, we have witnessed a remarkable transition. Initially, most certification was primarily centered in the US. However, with the rise of Antwerp as a key trading hub, where high-end diamond polishing was concentrated, here was a need for a European laboratory. This led to the founding of IGI in Antwerp in 1975 by Marcel Lorie and Herman Brauner. As India developed into a major polishing center over the years, IGI expanded its presence internationally, entering the US market in 1980 and establishing a significant foothold in India by 1999. Since then, we have introduced the vital concept of certification in an industry that was previously unregulated in this regard. Today, we are India’s largest certification company with over 50% market share. Globally, IGI commands over 65% market share in lab grown diamond certification and we are the second largest diamond certification company in the world.”
How has IGI maintained credibility and leadership in both natural and lab-grown diamond certification?
“The credibility of any certification body stems from its independence and objective analysis. For many years, only IGI had significant trust within the market. We certify both natural and lab-grown diamonds, our advanced capabilities allow us to distinguish between the two, ensuring consumers know exactly what they are purchasing. Lab-grown diamonds are physically, chemically and optically identical to natural diamonds, which can complicate differentiation. Thus, impartial certification is fundamental, especially to protect consumers from inadvertently overpaying. An IGI certificate is the proof to know the origin and to judge whether it is a natural diamond, lab-grown, a crystal or just a piece of glass masquerading as precious stone.”
Speaking of consumer trust, can you elaborate on the growing importance of independent gemological reports, particularly in emerging markets like India?
“Independent certification is crucial because, in essence, everyone will promote their own products as being the best. Without an unbiased perspective, it is impossible for consumers to make informed decisions. This is especially relevant in emerging markets like India, where the demand for transparency is surging, and consumers seek assurance that they are receiving quality products. With IGI’s established reputation, we are seen as a pillar of trust in this evolving landscape. We are here to serve the consumers with knowledge and transparency so they can take the right informed decision.”
Can you tell us about the workforce and infrastructure of IGI? What are the current capabilities regarding manpower?
