De Beers’ International Institute of Diamond Grading & Research (IIDGR) is to begin offering its melee testing service in Surat, India and Antwerp, Belgium.
IIDGR will verify the natural diamond content of parcels of melee before they are traded. Goods will be returned in sealed, tamper-proof IIDGR packages, with the contents clearly labeled.
“This service will play an important role in supporting both trade and consumer confidence,” said IIDGR president Jonathan Kendall.
“Sellers will be able to provide potential buyers with pre-checked goods in sealed IIDGR packages, removing any potential concerns around disclosure. As more and more diamond businesses seek greater levels of assurance about the content of the melee they are purchasing, this service will meet an increasing industry need.”
Testing will begin in India on October 26 and in Antwerp on November 12.