IIDGR launches first diamond detection course

The International Institute of Diamond Grading and Research (IIDGR) has announced the launch of a world-first Synthetic Diamond Detection course.

The program run by the Institute, which is part of De Beers, will be a two-day lab course. It will be unveiled at the end of the JCK trade in Las Vegas and the IIDGR Facility in Surat.

Participants will gain knowledge of how to detect synthetic stones in both rough and polished states.

It’s the first course to be offered by the IIDGR’s education services and a Diamond Foundation Course and Polished Diamond Grading course will be introduced later this year.

President of IIDGR, Jonathan Kensall, said: “The ability to detect undisclosed synthetic stones is becoming increasingly important for diamond traders and retailers. This will be the first course dedicated exclusively to this important topic.

“The introduction of the course represents another key step towards the IIDGR’s mission to ensure industry and consumer confidence in the integrity and quality of diamond purchases.”

In the UK, the course will be run by experts from the De Beers Technologies UK team and IIDGR’s director of education, Jodine Perrin.

The course will cost US$2,999 (£2,528).