The Israel Diamond Exchange presented its first “Israel Diamond Industry Outstanding Exporter” award to Lev Leviev, owner of LLD Diamonds Ltd. The award was presented in recognition of Leviev’s achievement as the largest exporter of polished diamonds from Israel in 2002, in the amount of $514 million.

Shmuel Schnitzer, President of the Israel Diamond Exchange, praised Leviev for his contribution to the Israel diamond sector, as an importer of rough diamonds for the manufacturing industry in Israel, and as a leading exporter of polished diamonds. Schnitzer explained that the Israel Diamond Exchange has embarked on a new tradition, and will present the “Outstanding Exporter” award every year, to mark its appreciation for diamantaires who contribute to the development of Israel’s exports and international trade.

Upon receiving the award, Lev Leviev said that he sees this honor as recognition of the excellence and achievements of his company, its management and employees.

“I am proud to serve at the head of a company whose human resources are so highly skilled and professional. Thanks to these people the company has been able to surge forward and to achieve success even during this period of prolonged economic difficulties,” he said.

Leviev noted that the use of advanced technologies, which were developed in Israel, were a significant element in his company’s success. These technologies include high resolution computer programs which enable the optimal utilization of rough diamonds and laser systems for manufacturing polished diamonds.

JCK