The International Institute of Gemology (IIG) has entered into a strategic partnership with Polygon, a North American B2B trade network for gem and jewellery professionals, to strengthen global trade access and industry-linked learning for its students, alumni and manufacturer partners. The collaboration aims to connect India's gemological community with Polygon's international trading network, which has operated since 1984.

Under the partnership, IIG's active students and alumni will receive an introductory membership rate on Polygon, providing access to a commission-free B2B platform of verified retailers, dealers and wholesalers across North America. The organizations will also jointly develop industry content, including market insights, sourcing guides and webinars, to provide practical exposure to current business and manufacturing practices.

The agreement also includes support for Indian manufacturers and suppliers. IIG will introduce qualified Indian manufacturers to Polygon for onboarding and partnership discussions, with the objective of improving business visibility and facilitating connections in the North American market.

Commenting on the partnership, Rahul Desai, Director, IIG, said, "At IIG, our vision has always been to make quality education accessible to every learner, across age groups, formats, cities, and countries. But true education is not confined to the classroom. It must create access: to industry, to networks, to real opportunities, and to the wider world of trade our students will one day lead. Our partnership with Polygon is a meaningful step in that direction. It connects our community to an established international network, opens doors for Indian manufacturers, and gives our students a clearer view of the global industry they are preparing to enter."

Sean Lemire, General Director of Polygon, added, "India is one of the most important sourcing and manufacturing hubs in the global jewelry trade, and IIG sits at the center of its gemological education community. This partnership gives our members a more direct line into that ecosystem, and gives IIG's network access to a trusted, professional marketplace built over four decades."

The partnership will also extend to industry events, with IIG participating in Polygon-affiliated trade events and webinars. Rahul Desai has been invited to serve as a panelist or moderator at upcoming Polygon programmes, creating additional engagement between IIG's network and international trade professionals.