International Diamond Laboratories held its first graduation Thursday where 17 students, who successfully completed its inaugural eight-day course in diamond grading, received IDL Diplomas which qualifies them as Diamond Graduates. The course was offered in association with the Diamond Academy, a division of the Dubai Diamond Exchange.

Peter Meeus, chief executive officer of IDL presented the Diplomas. The ceremony was also attended by Eli Izhakoff, president, World Diamond Council; Ernie Blom, president, World Federation of Diamond Bourses; Gaetano Cavalieri, president of the World Jewellery Confederation; Ahmed Bin Sulayem, executive chairman, Dubai Multi Commodities Centre; Rutledge and chairman of DDE; and Youri Steverlynck, CEO of DDE.

“The course focused on the latest techniques and technologies used in diamond grading; the participants will benefit from the IDL Diploma which acts as a label of quality for their business and will help to advance their career,” Meeus said.

Trade participants included Dwarkesh Diamonds, Sky Jewellery, Dhamani Jewels, Sparklers International, Gem Corp DMCC, Bhansali Diamonds, and Damas LLC.

The training program was conducted by Ann Van Spaendonk, a world renowned diamond expert. She taught theoretical and practical aspects of diamond grading, helping to upgrade the participants’ knowledge and skills as diamond graders.

JCK