The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) India recently held a graduation ceremony for its students of the various GIA Education programmes, including Graduate Gemologist (G.G.), Graduate Diamond (G.D.) and Graduate Colored Stones (G.C.S.). The Chief Guest at the ceremony was Milan Parikh of Mahendra Brothers, and a GIA Alumni Association member. He presented the diplomas to the graduates, and shared a few insights of his experience and guiding the students of the road into the professional world of today. %% “Being a GIA graduate, I appreciate GIA India’s efforts to impart quality training and provide relevant skills and counsel to aspiring professionals in India,” Parikh said. “GIA India’s state-of-the-art facility and innovative new initiatives will help its students succeed—and ultimately benefit the entire Indian gem and jewellery industry.” %% “In the 26 weeks of the Graduate Gemologist programme, students master GIA’s international standards of grading diamonds and colored stones. The GIA International Diamond Grading System™ has been established as the industry standard, and is used as such by the trade in India,” said Manoj Singhania, GIA India school director. The GIA accredited diploma programmes are internationally recognized as the hallmark for professional credentials. %% The GIA has tailor made its courses, lab classes and seminars to the Indian market to enhance expertise in all areas of diamonds, gemstones and jewellery. Nirupa Bhatt, GIA managing director of GIA India and Middle East, added, “GIA programmes on diamond and colored stones are internationally applauded. At GIA India, we offer both programmes to aspiring students who want to build prosperous and important careers in our vibrant industry.”