Surat Cut Diamond Awarded Coveted GI Tag in Major Industry Milestone
The city of Surat has achieved a significant landmark with the award of the Geographical Indication (GI) tag for the 'Surat Cut Diamond,' solidifying its position in the world-renowned diamond sector. This prestigious certification was formally presented to the Surat Diamond Association (SDA) by the Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII) during a ceremony held in Ahmedabad recently.
Long-Awaited Recognition for Diamond Craftsmanship
The SDA initiated the application process for this certification approximately 18 months ago, following in the footsteps of other local products like Surat Zari Craft, which had previously secured a GI tag. At the event, SDA president Jagdish Khunt accepted the certificate from Prof. Unnat Pandit, the Comptroller General of Patents, Designs and Trademarks (CGPDTM), and Sunil Shukla, the Director General of EDII.
In his remarks, Khunt emphasized that this recognition is a tribute to the countless diamond workers whose expertise in cutting and polishing has been instrumental in shaping the industry over many decades. He stated, "This recognition belongs to lakhs of diamond workers whose cutting and polishing skills have shaped the industry over decades. 'Surat Cut' will now emerge as a global brand on par with 'Belgium Cut' and other renowned standards. With nine out of ten diamonds in the world processed here, this recognition was long overdue." He further noted that comprehensive documentation detailing Surat's five-decade legacy in diamond processing, including tools, technology, and artisanal techniques, was submitted to secure the tag.
Global Impact and Economic Benefits of the GI Tag
According to the SDA, the GI tag will provide essential legal protection and significantly enhance the global credibility of Surat-cut diamonds. This certification is exclusively granted to products that are uniquely associated with a specific geographical origin, underscoring Surat's distinctive role in the diamond trade. Surat stands as the world's largest hub for diamond processing, responsible for nearly 90% of global diamond cutting and polishing activities. The industry supports over a million workers and has transformed from modest workshops into a sophisticated, technologically advanced ecosystem.
The GI tag is anticipated to deliver multiple advantages, including:
- Strengthened Branding: Elevating the 'Surat Cut' as a premium global standard.
- Prevention of Misuse: Safeguarding the name from unauthorized exploitation.
- Enhanced Export Value: Boosting competitiveness in international markets through increased trust and recognition.
Gujarat's Rich Heritage of GI-Recognized Products
In Gujarat, several other products have already received GI recognition for their geographical uniqueness, highlighting the state's diverse artisanal and agricultural heritage. Notable examples include:
- Gir Kesar mango
- Patan Patola
- Surat Zari Craft
- Amalsadi chickoo
- Sankheda furniture
- Ambaji marble
This latest addition of the Surat Cut Diamond to the list further enriches Gujarat's portfolio of globally acknowledged products, reinforcing its economic and cultural significance on the world stage.
