I had big intentions for a successful career in the diamond industry when I began to work as a diamond sorter and grader for Dimexon Diamonds Ltd. five years ago. Little did I know at the time that I would be better prepared to reach my goal after GIA India opened its doors in July 2004.

I had been using the company's detailed and comprehensive grading system for years, but overseas buyers began to request GIA grades when we started manufacturing larger-sized stones.

I was curious to learn the internationally recognized diamond grading system and was given the opportunity when my company enrolled me in the Graduate Diamonds program at GIA India. It was a wonderful experience. I had the opportunity to grade over 100 diamonds using the latest equipment.

We were not only taught the 4Cs of a diamond, but also the A to Z's of this multi-faceted stone. The benefits of a limited class size, personalized, expert instruction and many hours of hands-on training, have given me an upper-hand in the diamond industry.

More importantly, the program taught me the diamond grading system that is most important to our clients. It has further developed and strengthened my knowledge and skills in grading diamonds, so much so that I was promoted to sales executive once I completed the program.

I'm thankful to have been given the opportunity to participate in this enriching program because it's helped me take one step closer toward my goal in the diamond industry.

GIA students interested in contributing to Student View can contact Managing Editor Mauricio Minotta at (760) 603-4144, or e-mail mauricio.minotta@gia.edu.