Mehul Shah, Vice President of the Bharat Diamond Bourse (BDB), has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Gemmological Institute of India (GII).
With over four decades of experience in the diamond industry, Shah is recognised for his expertise in diamond certification, grading, and technological advancements in gem detection. He succeeds Anoop Mehta, who is noted for strengthening transparency and professionalism at the institute.
The Role of GII in the Industry
Founded in 1971, GII provides laboratory services, gemstone certification, and research for the diamond, gems, and jewellery sector. The institute is backed by key industry organisations, including the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), BDB, Diamond Exporters Association Limited (DEAL), Mumbai Diamond Merchants’ Association (MDMA), and the Gem & Jewellery Exporters’ Association (GJEA). It has developed diamond detection technologies, including its Q CHECK machine, and is involved in coloured gemstone certification.
Industry Response to New Leadership
Shah’s appointment has been met with support from industry members, who see him as a capable successor to Mehta. Acknowledging his predecessor’s contributions, Shah stated, “I thank Anoop Mehta for having taken GII to the heights that it is today. I will try to live up to his expectations and strive to achieve the trust that the industry members have bestowed on me.”
Focus on Technology and Expansion
Shah has identified artificial intelligence and automation as key areas for the future of grading, certification, and diamond detection. He also outlined plans to expand GII’s educational programmes and extend its presence beyond India into the Asia-Pacific region.
His tenure is expected to bring further developments in gemmological technology and support GII’s efforts to enhance its research and certification capabilities.
