The International Institute of Gemology (IIG) held its 32nd Convocation Ceremony at Radisson Hotel Mumbai, Andheri MIDC, recognising 150 graduating professionals across multiple gems and jewellery disciplines.

The ceremony was centred on the theme “Human Brilliance in the Age of AI”, with programmes spanning gemology, diamonds, jewellery design, CAD, jewellery manufacturing, retail and other specialised areas.

Kirit Bhansali, Chairman, Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), attended the event as Chief Guest and addressed the gathering on the sector’s evolving requirements for skilled professionals.

“Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a Viksit Bharat is built on the strength of a skilled, capable and confident India,” Bhansali said, adding that the industry’s movement towards technology adoption, innovation and global competitiveness would create opportunities for trained professionals.

Rahul Desai, Managing Director, IIG, highlighted the need for education institutions to continuously update their curriculum and incorporate new technology. “Human intelligence will always transcend artificial intelligence,” he said, while stressing the importance of judgement, creativity, craftsmanship and integrity alongside technology.

The event also featured student projects in diamonds, gemology and jewellery, including a virtual reality project demonstrating gemstone identification by AI alongside a human expert.

IIG launched Gemstone Fundamentals, following last year’s Diamond Fundamentals, as well as IIG America, IIG CONNECT and Season 4 of its podcast, Loupe Insight.

The convocation also marked IIG’s six-decade legacy in gems and jewellery education, with certificates, academic honours and trophies presented to graduates.