Authentication to protect gem trade

Dubai: The Dubai Metals and Commodities Centre launched on Monday the Dubai Gem Certification services, the world's first ISO-recognised gem authentication service for diamonds, gemstones, pearls and jewellery.

The unique service will allow jewellery traders and consumers to certify all varieties of gemstones and items of jewellery from renowned certification agencies worldwide.

Tawfiq Farah, executive director of diamonds and coloured stones at DMCC, said the centre was conducting research to establish the total volume and value of diamond, gemstone, pearl and jewellery markets in the Gulf and the UAE.

"While there are accurate and encouraging figures on the diamond trade generally, trade in the UAE has topped $1 billion (Dh3.67 billion) since the beginning of 2005. However, there are no accurate figures available on other segments such as gems and pearls, which also enjoy vibrant and growing markets," he said.

"The Dubai Gem Certification is an initiative to ensure that the gems and jewellery trade in this region is provided with the means to apply international standards in its local markets."

He said it would promote ethical and transparent trade practices and provide a competitive edge to regional gem trading businesses.

"The reputation of our members will be enhanced further as they will be seen to set and maintain the highest possible standards of business ethics and professionalism in the jewellery industry," he said

The new programme is the result of partnership agreements with leading institutions from across the world to offer first class diamonds, gemstones, pearls and jewellery certificates, such as the American Gem Society Laboratories and the world-renowned Gubelin Gem Laboratory and Directorate of Precious Metals and Gem Stones Testing in Bahrain.

These institutions boast the presence of leading gemologists as well as the trust of the global gems and jewellery trade.

DMCC said the certification process would provide an efficient and speedy turnaround for members as well as information and advisory services in diamonds, gemstones, pearls and jewellery items certification.

Laurent Grenier de Cardenal, director coloured stones and gem certification services at Dubai Gem Certification, said the service would aim to develop a reputation for integrity in the business community and would build confidence among buyers and the public in the city's gems and jewellery industry.

"We aim to be a standard of excellence that will bring us international esteem and recognition and will create a new benchmark in gem and jewellery certification."