Date:02/02/2006 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2006/02/02/stories/2006020202110800.htm

Back Vummidi Bangaru gets IGI certification

Our Bureau

A model at the inauguration of Vummidi Bangaru Jewellers' diamond jewellery showroom in Chennai on Wednesday. — Bijoy Ghosh

Chennai , Feb. 1

VUMMIDI Bangaru Jewellers (VBJ) has become one of the first jewellers in India to have all its diamonds and diamond-studded jewellery certified for quality by the International Gemological Institute (IGI).

IGI is one of the world's leading independent diamond, gemstone and fine jewellery certification institutes.

Mr Amarendhra Vummidi, Partner, VBJ, said that they decided to go in for certification from a third party to set new standards in diamond retail. The certification would reassure consumers that the diamonds they were buying were graded "highest quality in diamonds" in cut, carat, clarity and colour.

VBJ will absorb the cost of the certification and will not pass it on to the customer, he said.

Mr Tehmasp Printer, Managing Director, IGI India, said it was the lack of awareness that was inhibiting the customers from buying diamond jewellery. It was also difficult to ascertain the quality; "this certification would build customer confidence", he said.