In a significant move to bolster India’s diamond and jewellery certification infrastructure, HRD Antwerp has officially commenced operations at the Bharat Ratnam Mega Common Facility Centre (CFC) in Mumbai. The strategic collaboration was formally announced at IIJS Premiere 2025, one of the industry’s most prominent trade shows.
HRD Antwerp, Europe’s premier authority in diamond and jewellery grading, education, and equipment, is now offering its full range of certification services—including for both natural and lab-grown diamonds—within the state-of-the-art Mega CFC facility. The partnership aims to enhance the quality, transparency, and global competitiveness of India’s jewellery manufacturing sector.
The inauguration event witnessed the presence of several industry leaders and dignitaries, including Ravi Menon, CEO of Bharat Ratnam Mega CFC; Tom Neys, Global Marketing, Sales & Education Director, HRD Antwerp; and Ramakant Mitkar, Managing Director, HRD Antwerp India.
Ravi Menon highlighted the long-term vision of the Mega CFC, stating, “The Bharat Ratnam Mega CFC was envisioned to provide a competitive edge to Indian manufacturers through access to the best technologies and expertise. HRD Antwerp’s presence within our ecosystem is a powerful addition toward fulfilling that vision.”
Tom Neys underscored the significance of the Indian market for HRD Antwerp: “India continues to be one of the most influential players in the global diamond and jewellery industry. Through this collaboration, HRD Antwerp aims to bring its legacy of grading precision and trust to a wider spectrum of Indian manufacturers and exporters.”
Ramakant Mitkar added that the new location will improve access for clients, particularly exporters and manufacturers in and around the MIDC area, to submit their pieces for certification. “With the upcoming trend in lab-grown diamonds, HRD Antwerp is also committed to educating consumers on the authenticity of their jewellery,” he noted.
Located in Mumbai’s bustling jewellery manufacturing hub, the integrated services from HRD Antwerp are expected to raise the benchmark for quality standards and instil greater confidence in Indian-made jewellery across global markets.