Gemological Science International (GSI) and Dr. Homi Bhabha State University in Mumbai have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening ties between the jewellery industry and academic institutions.
The agreement, signed on 6th May 2024, sets the stage for collaboration in education, research, and technological advancements in the fields of gemology and chemistry.
The MoU was formalised by Deepa Srinivasa, Chief Gemologist at GSI Mumbai, and Professor Vilas Padhye, Registrar of Dr. Homi Bhabha State University. Several senior university officials were also present, including Dr. Vishal Banewar, Director of the Research & Incubation Center, and Dr. Shubhangi Patil, Nodal Officer and Internship Head.
Skill Development and Practical Experience
A key element of this collaboration is the integration of practical industry insights into academic learning. Through internship programmes, students will gain hands-on experience, preparing them for careers that combine chemistry and gemology.
Two MSc students specialising in Organic Chemistry from Dr. Homi Bhabha State University have already begun a two-month internship at GSI, working on a project titled “Understanding the Geographical Origin of Ruby, Sapphire, and Emeralds Using Spectroscopy.” This project will involve the application of advanced analytical techniques, including Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Ultraviolet-Visible Spectroscopy (UV-Vis), and Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (ED-XRF). These methods are used in gemstone identification and treatment analysis, highlighting the increasing convergence of scientific disciplines in gemological research.
Commenting on the partnership, Ramit Kapur, Managing Director of GSI, said, “At GSI, we believe in pushing the boundaries of learning and innovation. Our collaboration with Dr. Homi Bhabha State University is a perfect example of how interdisciplinary knowledge, chemistry and gemology in this case, can converge to create groundbreaking research and career opportunities for students.”
Expanding Career Pathways for Students
This partnership is particularly noteworthy for jewellers and gemologists because it underscores the growing importance of chemistry in gemstone analysis. Organic Chemistry, which typically finds applications in fields such as pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, is being applied to gemstone identification. This will potentially broaden career options for students in both academic and commercial sectors.
Dr. Vishal Banewar, Director of Dr. Homi Bhabha State University’s Research & Incubation Center, added, “Our collaboration with GSI gives our students an exceptional opportunity to widen their perspectives. We are developing adaptable individuals who can think critically and apply their knowledge in novel ways by fusing chemistry with gemological research. This will position them for a variety of jobs in both research and industry.”
CSR Initiatives and Future Opportunities
This collaboration is part of GSI’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, focusing on education, curriculum development, and employability,” said Ramit Kapur.
“As part of our CSR efforts, GSI aims to invest in the future of education and employability. We ensure that students gain not only specialised technical training but also broader career opportunities in fields where scientific knowledge and practical skills intersect,” said Ramit Kapur.
The agreement between GSI and Dr. Homi Bhabha State University is expected to foster innovation and talent development in the jewellery sector. For jewellers, this signals an important shift towards the integration of scientific expertise in gemstone analysis, which could lead to improved techniques and a deeper understanding of gemstone properties.
