The International Institute of Gemology (IIG) conducted a two-day industrial visit to Surat for its diamond and jewellery students as part of its industry-integrated training approach.

Surat, which processes the majority of the world’s diamonds, was selected to provide students with exposure to the complete diamond value chain. The visit was structured to connect classroom learning with on-ground industry operations.

At Hari Krishna Exports, students observed the journey of a diamond from rough sourcing to planning, cutting, bruting, polishing, grading and certification. A guided polishing session offered practical insight into production precision. Students also interacted with Brijesh Bhai Dholakia during the visit.

At Lexus SoftMac, Janak Bhai Mistry addressed students on the role of artificial intelligence and advanced technologies in diamond planning and manufacturing. Students were introduced to systems integrating AI into production workflows, including analysis of natural colour diamonds and rare stones.

The second day included a visit to HK Jewels, where Praveen Bhai Tiwari guided students through CAD designing, casting, setting, finishing, quality control and dispatch operations. The structured workflow and systems-based management approach were demonstrated at scale.

At Jaykar Diamond, Kavith Bhai Parikh outlined how entrepreneurs can access manufacturing facilities to convert rough to polished stones within a transparent framework.

Commenting on the initiative, Rahul Desai of IIG said, “When students see how leadership thinks, how production moves, how technology is applied, they begin to understand the industry as a system. That awareness cannot be simulated in a classroom. It must be experienced.”