International Diamond Laboratories (IDL) concluded its first eight day Polished Diamond Grading course, and honoured the graduating 17 students at a graduation ceremony. Peter Meeus, Chief Executive Officer of IDL presented the diplomas to the students which qualifies them as Diamond Graduates. Industry experts graced the ceremony, including Eli Izhakoff – President World Diamond Council; Ernie Blom – President World Federation of Diamond Bourses (WFDB); Gaetano Cavalieri – President of CIBJO (World Jewellery Confederation); Ahmed Bin Sulayem – Executive Chairman – DMCC; David Rutledge – Chairman of DDE and Youri Steverlynck, CEO of DDE. %% The course was offered in association with the Diamond Academy, a division of the Dubai Diamond Exchange (DDE). It focused on imparting knowledge about latest techniques and technologies used in diamond grading. Peter Meeus commented, “We are committed to developing Dubai’s diamond industry and education plays a key role in this. The participants will benefit from the IDL Diploma which acts as a label of quality for their business and will help to advance their career.” %% Trade participants included Dwarkesh Diamonds, Sky Jewellery, Dhamani Jewels, Sparklers International, Gem Corp DMCC, Bhansali Diamonds and Damas LLC. The training programme was conducted by Ann Van Spaendonk, a world renowned diamond expert. Receiving a positive feedback from the students, the IDL has decided to conduct the Polished Diamond Grading courses on permanent basis in Dubai, April onwards.