JB Insights
IIG hosts grand Global Convocation 2025, launches new learning milestones for the jewellery industry
The International Institute of Gemology celebrated its 2025 Annual Convocation at Sahara Star, Mumbai, empowering 150+ graduates with innovation, industry insights, and global vision.
The International Institute of Gemology (IIG), a pioneering force in jewelry education since 1965, marked a proud milestone with the successful culmination of its Annual Convocation Ceremony on August 4th, 2025, at Sahara Star, Mumbai. The event brought together over 150 graduating students from across India and abroad, strengthening IIG’s global vision for education that is inclusive, industry-relevant, and future-forward. IIG also hosted a dedicated virtual convocation experience for international and remote learners.
This year’s convocation was a powerful showcase of IIG’s expanding role as a launchpad for professionals, a platform for innovation, and a driver for change in the gem and jewelry industry. Adding to the excitement, the event embraced a Bollywood theme, capturing the glamour and energy of Indian cinema, perfectly reflecting the vibrancy of our graduates and the industry.
The convocation was graced by the presence of K. Srinivasan, Chairman and Managing Director of Emerald Group, who served as the Chief Guest. With decades of leadership in gold jewelry manufacturing, Mr. Srinivasan is widely recognized for transforming traditional production models into tech-driven, talent-rich enterprises.
Sharing his thoughts on the occasion, K Srinivasan stated: “Today’s jewelry industry needs professionals who are not only technically sound, but also culturally agile, ethically rooted, and innovation-driven. What IIG is building is more than an academic framework, it is a movement. A movement towards creating empowered, globally-ready individuals who carry the legacy of craftsmanship with the mindset of change-makers. I’m honoured to be part of this moment, and deeply optimistic about what these young graduates will bring to our industry.”
One of the key highlights of the event was the official launch of Diamond Fundamentals, a dialogue-driven learning resource designed specifically for professionals in the gem and jewelry trade. Built with learning depth and curated for flexibility, it reflects IIG’s philosophy of real-time learning that adapts to the evolving demands of the industry.
IIG also unveiled RD Consultancy, a recent bold initiative by CEO and MD. Rahul Desai, aimed at providing business mentoring, strategic insights, and practical coaching to learners even after graduation.
Reflecting on the convocation and IIG’s journey, Rahul Desai shared: “When we talk about education at IIG, we don’t just mean classrooms and curriculums. We mean context, community, and career. This institution was built on the belief that education should be customized, current, and compassionate. Over the years, we’ve taught over a lakh professionals, but our real achievement lies in the lives we’ve helped shape. Today, we are more focused than ever on building IIG into a dynamic, global platform, one that adapts to every learner’s journey, supports them even after they graduate, and stands by our philosophy of education for all, and I feel proud that my team also live by IIG’s core values and vision.”
Gunjan Sapra, COO of IIG, also addressed the graduates with an inspiring speech. She spoke about the core values of discipline, creativity, and a strong foundation, emphasizing that these principles are key to success, no matter which field the graduates have pursued. Reflecting on the institute’s mission and the significance of the convocation, she shared,
Gunjan Sapra, said We understand that success isn’t just about academic knowledge; it’s about building a solid foundation and nurturing creativity. Thus, we’re always evolving to ensure our students get the best. Whether it’s a fundamental tool like ZBrush or a complete curriculum update, we make sure our students stay ahead of the curve. This is what they deserve, and this is what we are proud to provide.”
The event was also graced by industry influencer Prernaa Makhariaa, who addressed the students and introduced her platform – Jewellery Networking. It serves as a platform for connecting jewelry industry service seekers with providers.
As the ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by Ms. Binnita Shah, it was clear that the convocation was not just an event; it was a reflection of IIG’s evolution into a next-generation educational leader, blending legacy with innovation and curriculum with culture. With a global alumni network, tailored learning pathways, strong industry connections, and an expanding knowledge portfolio, IIG continues to set new standards in gemological education. IIG is deeply grateful to its team for their support and dedication, which are crucial to our collective success.
JB Insights
SILVER SHOW OF INDIA: A Revolutionary Platform Empowering India’s Silver Manufacturing and Retail Ecosystem
Historically, India’s silver jewellery manufacturers operated on the periphery of the major trade exhibition circuit. Despite their rich craftsmanship, they lacked a dedicated, high-profile national stage. To bridge this gap, GES India Incorporated launched the Silver Show of India (SSI) in June 2022. Designed as a structured response to a long-standing industry demand, SSI has rapidly evolved from a foundational spark into one of the country’s most consequential specialized jewellery trade exhibitions.
From Regional Roots to a Pan-India Powerhouse
The trajectory of SSI reflects a story of deliberate, strategic scaling:
- The Bangalore Beginnings : The inaugural show drew 74 participants, a number that nearly doubled to 133 by the second edition in December 2022, signaling growing trade acceptance.
- The Mumbai Strategic Pivot : Moving the exhibition to the premium Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai was a deliberate move to elevate silver to the same status as fine gold and diamond jewellery. The June 2023 edition validated this choice, drawing 173 companies, 435 stalls, and a record 10,800 trade visitors, transforming SSI into a truly pan-India platform.
- SSI Mumbai 4th Edition at JWCC features over 495 exhibiting companies across 1400 stalls, spanning 150,000 sq ft.
Institutional Backing and Strategic Alliances
SSI’s industry credibility is heavily reinforced by partnerships with premier trade bodies. The IBJA has been a steadfast national partner in elevating the Mumbai show’s stature. Crucially, SSI has secured the formal alignment of major trade associations from Agra , Rajkot and major silver hubs—bringing invaluable community networks, authenticity, and trade clout to the platform.
Extensive Marketing and Global Footprint
The organizers executed an aggressive, door-to-door outreach campaign encompassing over 500 districts across India, targeting markets frequently overlooked by larger trade bodies. This is supported by deep digital engagement across LinkedIn, WhatsApp, and specialized trade networks. Internationally, the show is drawing buyers from Nepal, Malaysia, Thailand, and the USA. To cater to a premium audience, the organizers have integrated a curated buyer-engagement model, hosting buyers with 1,000 room nights at luxury hotels like Sofitel and Trident.
Market Impact and Future Outlook
The success of SSI correlates directly with a measurable revitalization of the silver sector:
- Logistics partners report a massive 300% increase in the volume of silver goods transported over the past two years.
- Corporate retail groups are actively expanding their dedicated silver floor space, with a Southeast-based corporate establishing exclusive silver showrooms.
- High-end designs typically reserved for gold and diamonds are increasingly being reinterpreted in silver.
Looking ahead, SSI is implementing a robust three-city architecture: Mumbai will anchor the pan-India edition, Bangalore will serve the South Indian market, and a new Delhi edition will capture the North Indian market.
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JewelBuzz is Asia’s First Digital Jewellery Media & India’s No.1 B2B Jewellery Magazine, published by AM Media House. Since 2016, we’ve been the trusted source for jewellery news, market trends, trade insights, exhibitions, podcasts, and brand stories, connecting jewellers, retailers, and industry professionals worldwide.