The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) has been instrumental in elevating India’s gem and jewellery industry to global prominence. Established in 1966 under the aegis of the Ministry of Commerce, Government of India, GJEPC’s primary mandate is to promote the export of Indian gems and jewellery, ensuring that products meet stringent international quality standards. A cornerstone of this mission is the establishment of gemological laboratories and the implementation of robust certification processes that uphold quality and enhance the credibility of Indian exports.

GJEPC’s Role in Establishing Gemological Laboratories

Recognizing the critical importance of quality assurance in the gem and jewellery sector, GJEPC has established several state-of-the-art gemological laboratories across India. These laboratories are equipped with advanced technology and staffed by skilled professionals dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of gem testing and certification.

1. Gem Testing Laboratory (GTL), Jaipur: Established in 1972, GTL Jaipur is one of India’s oldest gemological laboratories. It offers comprehensive gemological services to both domestic and international clients, including gemstone identification, grading, and certification. In a significant move to bolster the credibility of Indian gemstones in the global market, GTL Jaipur partnered with eBay to certify gemstones sold on the platform, ensuring that global customers receive authentic and high-quality gemstones from India(gjepc.org)

2. Indian Gemmological Institute – Gem Testing Laboratory (IGI-GTL), Delhi: Located in the nation’s capital, IGI-GTL Delhi serves the gem testing and certification needs of North India. The laboratory provides services such as gemstone identification, diamond grading, and treatment detection, ensuring that the gems and jewellery exported from this region meet international quality standards.

3. Gemmological Institute of India (GII), Mumbai: Established in 1971, GII Mumbai is renowned for its gemological training services and research and development work. The institute is an authority on gemstones and diamonds in the country, with a highly trained and competent faculty that regularly produces research papers on gemstones. GII offers services including diamond grading, gemstone identification, and synthetic diamond detection, contributing significantly to the credibility of Indian gem exports.

4. Indian Diamond Institute (IDI), Surat: Situated in Surat, a major diamond processing hub, IDI provides a range of services including diamond grading, gemology courses, and research. The institute plays a pivotal role in ensuring that diamonds processed and exported from India adhere to international quality standards.

Certification Processes Upholding Quality Standards

GJEPC’s certification processes are designed to ensure that every gem and jewellery piece exported from India meets the highest quality standards, thereby enhancing the country’s reputation in the global market. Key initiatives include:

• Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS): India is a founding member of the KPCS, an international certification scheme that regulates trade in rough diamonds to prevent the flow of conflict diamonds. GJEPC has been mandated by the Government of India as the nodal agency for KPCS, playing a key role in maintaining the data and paperwork of the flow of all diamonds certified as ‘conflict-free’ going in and out of the country. This initiative underscores India’s commitment to ethical sourcing and enhances the credibility of its diamond exports.

• Self-Regulation for Import-Export of Rough Diamonds: In line with the government’s focus on easing business procedures, the Government of India has mandated membership of GJEPC for obtaining the Kimberley Process Certificate for the import and export of rough diamonds. This move empowers GJEPC and its members to self-regulate, ensuring compliance with international standards and bolstering the credibility of Indian diamond exports.

• Indian Association for Gold Excellence and Standards (IAGES): In a landmark achievement, the Indian gold industry announced the formation of IAGES, a self-regulatory organization created by the industry and supported by the World Gold Council. IAGES aims to increase consumer confidence and enhance trust in the Indian gold industry through encouraging the adoption of fair, transparent, and sustainable practices, regulatory compliance, and establishing a code of conduct. GJEPC is a key participant in this initiative, reflecting its commitment to upholding quality standards in the gold sector.

Impact on the Credibility of Indian Exports

GJEPC’s relentless focus on quality assurance through the establishment of gemological laboratories and stringent certification processes has significantly enhanced the credibility of Indian gem and jewellery exports. The Council’s efforts have ensured that Indian products are synonymous with quality and ethical sourcing, making them highly sought after in international markets.

The impact of these initiatives is evident in the export figures. Gems and jewellery exports have accounted for approximately 11% of India’s total exports, worth between US$25-40 billion per year during the financial years 2012 to 2022. This substantial contribution underscores the importance of the sector to India’s economy and highlights the success of GJEPC’s quality assurance programs.(gold.org)

Altus Exports: Partnering with Indian Manufacturers for Global Success

As Indian manufacturers strive to meet international quality standards, partnering with experienced export facilitators becomes crucial. Altus Exports, a premier merchant exporter, specializes in delivering the best of India’s textiles, handicrafts, chemicals, and food products to the global market. Our commitment to quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction makes us an ideal partner for Indian manufacturers aiming to expand their global footprint.

How Altus Exports Can Assist Indian Manufacturers

1. Quality Assurance: We prioritize quality at every step, from sourcing to packaging. Our rigorous quality control processes ensure that products meet the highest international standards, aligning with the certification processes established by bodies like GJEPC.

2. Extensive Network: With a robust network of trusted suppliers, manufacturers, and artisans across India, we offer a diverse range of products and swift response times to meet global demands.

3. Market Expertise: Our extensive international trade experience ensures seamless transactions and regulatory compliance.

Digital Transformation: GJEPC’s Role in Modernizing the Gem and Jewellery Sector

Sustainability and Ethical Practices: GJEPC’s Commitment to Responsible Sourcing

Financial Support: GJEPC’s Assistance in Accessing Export Financing and Insurance

Market Insights: How GJEPC Provides Critical Data and Trends to Exporters

Infrastructure Development: GJEPC’s Establishment of Common Facility Centers (CFCs)

Ensuring Quality: GJEPC’s Certification and Standardization Programs

E-Commerce Expansion: GJEPC’s Initiatives to Boost Online Jewellery Exports

Streamlining Exports: GJEPC’s Efforts in Policy Advocacy and Government Collaboration

Navigating Global Markets: GJEPC’s Role in Facilitating International Trade Shows

Empowering Artisans: GJEPC’s Training and Skill Development Initiatives