GIA Conducts Rough Diamond Evaluation Class in Namibia
Course taught in Afrikaans, June 30 to July 4
JOHANNESBURG – July 14, 2014 – Expanding on GIA’s (Gemological Institute of America) beneficiation and education efforts in Africa, the Institute held its first-ever class in Namibia, the Rough Diamond Evaluation course, from June 30 through July 4. The class, offered in the Afrikaans language and taught by instructor Koos Rademeyer, was very successful, with all students passing the course.“Bringing practical education about diamonds closer to producing regions helps those communities develop more economic value,” said Crystall Nel, GIA business development manager. “The course – our first of its kind in Namibia – is part of our effort to bring more of the value of the global gem and jewelry industry to producing communities.”
Since 2008, GIA has expanded its activities and presence in sub-Saharan Africa, opening two full-time laboratories and offering classes in Gaborone, Botswana and Johannesburg, South Africa; establishing partnerships with government agencies and universities throughout the continent; and maintaining a network of active alumni. Today, there are more than 900 alumni and two GIA Alumni Chapters in Africa.
The classroom in Okahandja, Namibia was held at the NamGem diamond cutting and polishing factory, and several notable industry members attended the Rough Diamond Evaluation graduation. Pictured below (from left to right) are Kennedy Hamutenya, diamond commissioner of the Republic of Namibia; Christian Merkling, director of Africa for Lazare Kaplan International; Vallerie Aron, mayor of Okahandja, Namibia; Honorable Isak Katali, minister of Mines and Energy of the Republic of Namibia; Yoav Lavee, general manager of NamGem Diamond Manufacturing Company; and Crystall Nel, GIA business development manager.
