The International Gemological Institute (IGI), the world's largest independent gemological institute, announced it has opened its 13th branch in Bengaluru. Located at 136 Cears Plaza off of Residency Road, the new laboratory will evaluate diamond jewelry as well as provide educational services in gemology to local diamond and gemstone enthusiasts.

The Bengaluru branch complements IGI's established laboratories in Thrissur, Chennai and Hyderabad. The state-of-the-art laboratory will evaluate and certify jewelry on the same international standard that all of IGI's worldwide locations adhere to. With this addition, IGI not only intends to expand its client service portfolio and reach, but also promote its foremost objective of raising awareness of the importance of gem and jewelry evaluation.

"We're pleased to expand into a key jewelry market in southern India to cater to the many retailers and jewelers located in the area," said Tehmasp Printer, managing director, IGI India. "Considering the accelerated rate at which this market is growing, the primary decision to start an office in Bengaluru is to provide consumers with easy access to the exemplary services that IGI offers."

IGI's School of Gemology will be essential in providing high-quality education to area retailers, jewelry designers and jewelry enthusiasts. With an unparalleled range of coursework, spanning from rough diamond grading to gemstones, modern treatments and computer-assisted jewelry design, IGI offers premium education in gemology for students and trade professionals who would like to earn a professional diploma in their field of interest.

"As a trusted independent gemological Institute, we're honored to have the opportunity to now provide our multitude of services to consumers in Bengaluru," said Roland Lorie, IGI CEO. "We look forward to playing an instrumental role in the market's continued growth and success."

For more information on IGI and its offerings, please visit www.igi.org.