JB Insights
Shaping Gem Enthusiasts for a Global Retail Reality: Inside GSI’s Colored Stone Program
By Ramit Kapur, Managing Director GSI India
One of the recurring questions I hear from retailers, whether in the heart of Mumbai or in the luxury corridors of New York is this: Where do we find individuals who truly understand colored stones? Not just those who can name them or describe their appearance, but professionals who understand their essence. People who grasp quality, origin, treatments, pricing influences and most importantly, how all of it directly impacts customer trust and retail flow.
Too often, gemology education ends at surface-level theory. Students know the textbook answers but lack the confidence to apply that knowledge when faced with a real-world stone. That’s because being a gemological professional is never about just one thing; it’s a sum of many factors. Theory is essential, but without hands-on exposure, it stays abstract. Practical lab experience should be backed by a mindset that encourages critical thinking and pattern recognition. Add to that real-world exposure, problem-solving under pressure, and the ability to communicate insights clearly and you begin to shape someone truly capable.
A Lab-Driven Approach to Learning
That’s the exact gap GSI set out to address when we created the Colored Stone Professional (CSP) Diploma Program.
With our global expertise, advanced instrumentation, and access to live inventory, we are in a special position to build a course that doesn’t just skim the surface, but goes deeper, one that stands out in a sea of generic gemology programs. Our vision is to go beyond just another degree course and create professionals of the very standard we’d want to hire for our own labs: accurate, efficient, thoughtful. And once trained, whether they choose to become designers, sourcing leads, retail trainers, or full-time gemologists, the world becomes their oyster.
Our approach to this course is not purely academic. We built it from the inside out; as industry participants who live this work every day. GSI, as a global laboratory, examines gemstones daily from all major trading centers. Our experts are constantly updated; researching detection techniques, documenting treatment trends, and working with inventories that reflect the full range of market realities. With that vantage point, we are set to solve a real industry problem: the widening gap between gemological knowledge and real-world application.
The CSP Difference
I could write an entire book on why this course is different. And honestly, I can’t stress enough the value of learning from a global laboratory like GSI that is connected to daily realities across continents. That makes GSI a platform reflecting something much deeper than theory, it reflects practice, insight, and precision. So while I could list countless strengths of the Colored Stone Professional (CSP) Diploma, here are a few that I believe define its true character.
First, the practical exposure is unmatched. Students don’t just “learn” stones, they work with 800 gemstones across the span of the course. It’s a curriculum-integrated journey that helps them observe and identify inclusions, verify treatments, and understand what those treatments mean in real market conditions.
Then comes instrumentation. Students get the opportunity to attend advanced lab sessions, where they experience GSI’s state-of-the-art instrumentation firsthand, and understand its applicability. When they see how and why FTIR, UV-Vis, and advanced spectroscopy are used, they begin to appreciate the rigor behind every report.
We also take them to the source. Our mine visits aren’t just field trips. They’re reality checks. Students see rough material in its natural environment, understand how value begins at origin, and how supply chain complexities play out from mine to market. They grasp pricing at the root, not just from the price tag on a finished piece.
And finally, perspective. We bring in industry veterans for open sessions. These are not scripted lectures, they’re candid conversations. Students are encouraged to ask, challenge, and absorb insights from people who’ve spent decades in design, manufacturing, trading, and retail. The result is perspective rooted in reality.
International curriculum with a domestic blend.
The CSP diploma program has been carefully curated by some of the finest minds in the gem and jewelry world;not just in India, but globally. Our team includes global experts who ensure the curriculum remains current, rigorous, and industry-relevant across borders. It’s updated frequently to reflect the latest market realities, treatment discoveries, and sourcing challenges. The diploma itself is issued from our headquarters in New York, giving our graduates global credibility and recognition.
Through the CSP diploma program, we are building professionals who can sit across from a buyer and explain why two seemingly similar stones have a vast price difference, or why a particular origin commands a premium. That’s the kind of clarity that transforms retail experiences and builds trust. By the end of the program, every graduate stands at par with a fresher gemologist, equipped not only for technical positions but also to bring value in retail, sourcing, manufacturing, or design. In fact, designers who complete our program often find themselves pitching better, sourcing smarter, and delivering with far greater conviction.
JB Insights
AKSHAYA TRITIYA 2026 – The Focus Now Is On Buying With Clarity, Purpose, Value and Personal Relevance
OVERVIEW
As Akshaya Tritiya 2026 approaches, coinciding with India’s peak wedding season, the jewellery and bullion sector is gearing up for robust demand. Market sentiment is distinctly positive, underpinned by gold’s safe-haven appeal, evolving consumer preferences, and strategic industry initiatives expected to deliver healthy growth across key markets.
While the traditional appeal of gold and diamonds remains a powerful driver, a clear transformation in consumer behaviour is underway. Buyers are increasingly seeking lightweight designs, personalized storytelling pieces, and value-conscious exchange programmes. Despite elevated gold prices and external geopolitical uncertainties, purchase intent has remained consistently strong. Silver demand has also gained significant momentum, driven by its affordability and investment value potential.
CONSUMER SENTIMENT & BEHAVIOUR
The modern jewellery and bullion buyer is more discerning than ever. Key behavioural trends this season include a growing preference for lightweight designs, personalized pieces, diamond-studded options, and value-conscious exchanges through old gold programmes. Interest in digital gold and silver is also rising, reflecting evolving investment preferences.
— Darshan Chauhan, Wholetime Director, Sky Gold and Diamonds Ltd
“Consumer sentiment this Akshaya Tritiya carries a quiet confidence — measured, yet deeply rooted in tradition. The occasion continues to transcend transaction; it remains a moment of belief, of beginnings, and of considered indulgence.”
Price volatility has prompted consumers to be more strategic, using gold exchange programmes and rate protection schemes to optimize value. Emotional resonance — jewellery that tells a story or marks a milestone — is becoming a primary purchase motivator.
— Eshwar Surana, MD, Raj Diamonds
“Today’s consumers are increasingly drawn to pieces that go beyond tradition, reflecting individuality and enduring value. We are also increasingly seeing a preference for larger diamonds with an excellent cut grade that are masterfully crafted for maximum sparkle and brilliance.”
INDUSTRY OUTLOOK & DEMAND DRIVERS
Gold’s Enduring Cultural Significance
Gold continues to be a mandatory purchase for millions of Indian households during Akshaya Tritiya, reinforced by its deep cultural symbolism as a harbinger of prosperity and good fortune. Its safe-haven appeal amidst global economic uncertainties further bolsters demand this season.
— Rajesh Rokde, Chairman, GJC
“Gold is a mandatory purchase for many households during this period, and its safe haven appeal amidst economic uncertainties will further bolster demand. However, jewellers and consumers should remain cautious of potential short-term volatility in gold prices, influenced by rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.”
Silver’s Rising Momentum
Silver demand has gained remarkable traction this season, driven by both its affordability relative to gold and its growing recognition as a high-beta investment opportunity. The convergence of industrial and investment demand is positioning silver as a compelling parallel play alongside gold.
— Prithviraj Kothari, MD, RiddiSiddhi Bullions Ltd | National President, IBJA | Chairman, JITO
“Gold and silver are no longer just safe-haven assets — they are the market’s clearest signal of global uncertainty. With the US-Iran ceasefire still fragile, FOMC minutes flagging inflation risks, and central banks continuing to accumulate gold at a record pace, the structural bull case remains firmly intact. Every meaningful dip remains a buying opportunity, not a reason to exit.”
Wedding Season Synergy
The overlap of Akshaya Tritiya with the auspicious wedding season creates a powerful demand multiplier. Bridal trousseau purchases, gift sets, and investment jewellery all see significant upticks. This synergy has encouraged leading jewellers to extend store hours and launch dedicated bridal collections.
— Eshwar Surana, MD, Raj Diamonds
“We are expecting good traction in high-value diamond-studded and wedding jewellery, as there are a lot of weddings planned this summer. The demand for quality diamonds has already been very strong in the run-up to Akshaya Tritiya.”
Transparency & Innovation as Growth Levers
Industry associations such as the GJC are placing renewed emphasis on consumer confidence through transparency initiatives, innovative design, and digital accessibility. These efforts are expected to broaden the addressable market and attract younger, first-time buyers.
— Avinash Gupta, Vice Chairman, GJC
“At GJC, our focus remains on empowering jewellers and enhancing consumer confidence through transparency, innovation, and exceptional designs, thereby driving growth in the jewellery sector.”
LEADING BRAND STRATEGIES
PNG Jewellers — Targeting 25–30% Growth in Central India
PNG Jewellers has launched aggressive campaigns across Goa, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra. The brand is projecting a buying cycle well beyond the festive day itself, supported by:
◆ Attractive benefits on the old gold exchange
◆ Reduced making charges for the season
◆ Exclusive new collections curated for Akshaya Tritiya
◆ Extended store hours to maximize footfall and conversions
— Dr. Saurabh Gadgil, CMD, PNG Jewellers
“This Akshaya Tritiya, we are anticipating a strong and extended buying cycle, as the festival coincides with the wedding season. We are projecting healthy traction, with a targeted growth of 25% to 30% over last year, particularly in Central Indian markets such as Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.”
KISNA Diamond and Gold Jewellery — Gold Rate Protection Plan
For KISNA, Akshaya Tritiya is a cornerstone event contributing 15–18% of annual revenue. Recognizing heightened consumer sensitivity to gold price movements, the brand has introduced the innovative Gold Rate Protection Plan:
◆ Protects buyers against price increases post-purchase
◆ Expected to contribute approximately 25% of the monthly business
◆ Addresses growing demand for lightweight and diamond-studded pieces
◆ Actively promotes old gold exchange as a value-add mechanism
— Parag Shah, CEO, KISNA Diamond and Gold Jewellery
“This year, we are seeing a more value-conscious consumer, with gold price movements shaping purchase behaviour in the lead-up to the festival. We have introduced the Gold Rate Protection Plan as a strategic intervention to provide greater confidence and flexibility in the purchase journey.”
Raj Diamonds — Premium Bridal Collections
Raj Diamonds is focused on the premium end of the market with its signature high jewellery collections — Ruby Splendour and Ancient Splendour — designed for the discerning bridal buyer who values intrinsic quality alongside cultural significance.
◆ Ruby Splendour and Ancient Splendour signature collections
◆ Larger diamonds with excellent cut grade for maximum brilliance
◆ Crafted for consumers seeking individuality and enduring value
◆ Estimated 20–25% growth in value terms over the last year
BULLION MARKET PERSPECTIVE
Beyond jewellery, the bullion market is seeing parallel momentum driven by institutional and retail investment demand. The convergence of macro uncertainty, central bank accumulation, and silver’s industrial demand profile is creating a compelling case for both gold and silver this Akshaya Tritiya season.
— Narayan Debnath, MD, RadhaKrishna Jewellery Retail Pvt Ltd
“Market sentiment this Akshaya Tritiya is distinctly positive, supported by the continued rise in gold prices and its safe-haven appeal. There is also a clear uptick in interest towards digital gold and silver, reflecting evolving investment preferences. Silver demand has gained significant momentum this season, driven by its affordability and value potential.”
RISK FACTORS & MARKET CONSIDERATIONS
While the overall outlook is optimistic, industry leaders have flagged several considerations that jewellers and consumers should be mindful of:
◆ Short-term gold price volatility linked to geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East
◆ Elevated base gold prices may compress margins if demand softens unexpectedly
◆ Shifting consumer preferences require continuous product innovation and design investment
◆ Growing expectations around transparency and certification demand robust supply chain practices
— Rajesh Rokde, Chairman, GJC
“Jewellers and consumers should remain cautious of potential short-term volatility in gold prices, influenced by rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.”
CONCLUSION
India’s jewellery and bullion industry enters Akshaya Tritiya 2026 with well-founded confidence. A combination of enduring cultural demand, strategic promotional campaigns, consumer-friendly financial schemes, and an industry-wide pivot towards transparency and personalization is set to deliver robust growth.
The clearest signal from this season is that the consumer of 2025 buys with intention. Whether it is a lightweight everyday piece, a bridal set, a premium diamond investment, or a silver bullion coin, the purchase carries meaning — and the industry is rising to meet that expectation with clarity, value, and variety.
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