IDL awards diplomas to the first batch of diamond graduates from Saudi Arabia

'As KSA is the largest consumer of diamonds in the region and an important market for IDL, it is important to educate retailers and consumers about the importance of diamond grading. We had a fantastic response to our inaugural training programme and we look forward to conducting more advanced level courses in the country.'

The programme covered the properties of diamonds and identification of 4Cs- carat, colour, clarity and cut- that define the quality of a diamond.

Essam Jamal, President of Gold and Precious Stones Committee, JCCI, said: 'We are proud to have hosted the first IDL diamond grading course in Saudi Arabia. It is an important initiative that will raise the quality of service and information available to customers wishing to purchase the right quality diamonds and diamond jewellery.'

The course was open to retailers, jewellery designers and also consumers interested in knowing more about diamond grading.

Saad Alfudaili Alzahrani from Al Farsi Jewellery who was one of the participants, commented:

'This was the first training programme by IDL in KSA, and so I seized the opportunity to broaden my knowledge. It proved to be the right choice as it has helped me to gain more information about various aspects of diamonds and this will help me in my work.'

Another participant who felt he greatly benefited from the course is Abdullah Alqaidi from Damas.

He commented:

'I never thought there is so much to learn about diamonds. This course has made me more confident in dealing with customers asking for information on diamonds and diamond jewellery. It has given me a new perspective on diamond trade as both instructors provided us with valuable information. I look forward to participating in future courses by IDL.'