GI status granted to ‘Surat Cut Diamond’, boosting Surat diamond industry

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.”

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.

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.  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.