HRD Antwerp, a renowned European authority in diamond and jewellery certification, has inaugurated its latest laboratory in New Delhi, aiming to enhance transparency and authenticity within India’s diamond and jewellery market.
The inauguration ceremony witnessed the presence of esteemed guests, including Steven De Wilde, Deputy Head of Mission at the Belgian Embassy, alongside Gaurav Bawa and Rakesh Saraf. Notable attendees from princely states of India and royal families also graced the occasion, underscoring the significance of this milestone for the industry.
Ramakant Mitkar, Managing Director of HRD Antwerp India, emphasized the laboratory’s crucial role in empowering consumers and retail brands in North India. Addressing concerns regarding the rise of lab-grown diamonds and potential contamination of natural diamond jewellery, Mitkar stressed the necessity of international certification in fostering confidence and value in purchases.
Mitkar highlighted the dynamic nature of the diamond market, emphasizing the importance of consumer vigilance and awareness. Despite lab-grown diamonds sharing identical chemical compositions with natural diamonds, their market value can substantially decline, posing risks for uninformed buyers. Mitkar reiterated HRD Antwerp’s dedication to identifying fraudulent practices and safeguarding the integrity of the supply chain.
Beyond certification, the laboratory offers innovative products such as “HRD for memories” and a dedicated retailer application, aimed at enhancing the consumer experience and streamlining industry processes.
The establishment of the laboratory underscores HRD Antwerp’s commitment to promoting transparency and reliability within India’s diamond sector. Through the provision of dependable certification and advanced services, HRD Antwerp seeks to empower consumers and uphold the integrity of the diamond supply chain.
