Surat Cut Diamond’ gets GI tag, big boost for Gujarat’s diamond industry

Surat | Gujarat — In a landmark moment for India’s diamond capital, diamonds crafted in Gujarat have officially secured a global identity with the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag under the name “Surat Cut Diamond”—a move that has sparked celebrations across the industry.

The recognition, granted in a ceremony organised by the Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India in Ahmedabad, is being hailed as a historic milestone for Surat, which processes nearly 90% of the country’s polished diamonds.

Industry leaders say the GI tag not only elevates the global standing of Surat’s diamonds but also offers long-awaited legal protection against imitation. “This is a proud and defining moment for the entire diamond fraternity,” said Jagdishbhai Khunt, President of the Surat Diamond Association. “The ‘Surat Cut Diamond’ identity will now carry international credibility and trust.”

The GI certificate was formally presented by Unnat Pandit, Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks, along with Dr. Sunil Shukla, Director General of EDII, in the presence of industry representatives and dignitaries.

A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is awarded to products that possess unique qualities, reputation or characteristics linked to a specific region. Similar recognitions have been granted to iconic Indian products like Darjeeling tea and Patan’s Patola sarees. Now, Surat’s diamond craftsmanship joins this elite list.

“This tag recognises not just a product, but generations of skill, precision and dedication,” said an industry expert. “Surat’s artisans have built a global reputation over decades, and this formal acknowledgment strengthens that legacy.”

The benefits of the GI tag are both symbolic and economic. It ensures that only diamonds processed in Surat and parts of Gujarat can be marketed under the “Surat Cut Diamond” label, preventing misuse of the name. More importantly, it is expected to boost demand in international markets by assuring buyers of authenticity and superior craftsmanship.

“With GI certification, our diamonds will stand out in a highly competitive global market,” said president of Surat diamond Association (SDA), Jagdish Khunt. “It adds value, enhances brand identity and builds consumer confidence.”

The move is also expected to translate into financial gains for manufacturers and exporters, as GI-tagged products often command premium pricing and wider market access.

However, stakeholders emphasise that maintaining quality standards will now be crucial. “With recognition comes responsibility,” said a member of the diamond association. “We must ensure consistency in quality so that the ‘Surat Cut Diamond’ brand continues to shine globally.”

For a city whose economy revolves around diamonds, this recognition is more than just a label—it is a validation of its status as the world’s leading diamond processing hub.