GSI Expands National Footprint… Inaugurates Kerala Laboratory
After launching in Mumbai at BKC; Andheri and Goregaon GSI is now set to expand its footprint down south with a cutting-edge laboratory in Thrissur, Kerala. The GSI Kerala laboratory was inaugurated by none other than the respected Mayor Shri IP Paul. Thrissur being the cultural capital of India has a strong gem and Jewellery community with all major jewellery groups having manufacturing facilities and showrooms here. This made it a logical and favourable choice for GSI to set up a laboratory.
At the newly opened lab, GSI will be offering grading of loose diamonds; diamond jewellery grading; QA services; preliminary services customized for different customers and different situations via a unique Mobile Lab. The lab will undertake grading and pre-sorting of all sizes of diamonds from -000 to 100 carats. The lab will also offer customized reports in different formats. We will do our part by offering very competitive pricing for our services Mobile Lab within Kerala.
Speaking on the launch Mark Gershburg, CEO, Gemological Science International (GSI) said “India is one of our most important markets and we have been very successful so far in our endeavor. With the new laboratory, we are confident to be able to cater to the huge market for gems and Jewellery down south.”
Neeta Shah, Vice President of India Operations further “Our aim at GSI is to not only create awareness about gem identification but to bring about a significant change in the industry through a professional and structured approach towards the process. We strongly believe that the market is evolving towards professionalism and we will be able to cater to the changing needs of both the industry and the consumers.”
Part of GSI’s meteoric success in India is its keen understanding of India’s growing domestic jewellery market. The composition of the Indian retail market is unique calling for a very specific trade model, for example, many Indian merchants require gradual upgrade paths to adapt to the U.S. market standards. Security measures in India are different than in other markets, and to enhance supply chain security GSI has ensured locating the Indian labs close to the world’s leading diamond cutting/polishing and jewellery centers. In India, GSI is also actively involved in working with polishing facilities, consulting with cutters, and interacting with other labs to coordinate cutting and grading services. Proximity to polishing facilities and other industry infrastructure provides a valuable competitive benefit to the business.
About the author
Debbie Azar is an experienced executive with extensive knowledge of the jewelry and gem lab industries. Her entrepreneurial skills and clarity of vision have helped GSI achieve rapid and continuous growth worldwide.
She began her industry career by starting her own successful costume jewelry business. She then expanded her knowledge of the industry with sales, marketing and business development roles at several companies. In 2005, she joined Mark Gershburg to establish GSI. Ms. Azar is an active member of myriad industry organizations and charities; she currently serves as a Board Member of Jewelers for Children. She is also a Forbes Business Council member.
Her strengths include working directly with retail chains and stores to help build their business and brands. She is widely known in the industry for her commitment to meeting customer needs.
