The International Gemological Institute (IGI), the world’s second-largest diamond grading lab, is set to go public on December 20. Trading will begin on Indian stock exchanges following an initial public offering (IPO) aimed at raising ₹42.25 billion ($497 million), according to a 613-page prospectus dated December 6.
IPO Details and Valuation
The IPO will open for bids between December 13 and December 17. The offering values IGI at approximately $2.1 billion, a figure slightly below the $569.65 million price paid by Blackstone Group subsidiary BCP Asia II TopCo when it acquired IGI in 2023.
Post-IPO, Blackstone will retain 76% ownership of IGI. CEO Tehmasp Printer expressed confidence in Blackstone’s long-term commitment, saying, “I believe Blackstone is committed for the next 10 years, possibly extending even further.”
Proceeds from the IPO will go toward:
Acquiring IGI’s Belgium and Netherlands affiliates.
General corporate purposes, per the prospectus.
Revenue Streams: A Lab-Grown Diamond Leader
IGI operates 31 grading labs and 18 educational schools worldwide. According to the prospectus, lab-grown diamonds account for 59% of IGI’s revenue, compared to 19% from natural diamonds. The lab positions itself as a leader in the lab-grown diamond sector, with Printer noting the advantages:
“Lab-grown is the new kid on the block, and we are sitting on top of it. Its production is more standardized, offering economies of scale.”
Concerns Over Oversight
The prospectus acknowledges potential risks, especially regarding IGI’s in-factory grading setups. A significant portion of its lab-grown grading occurs in diamond growers’ factories, where IGI gemologists work alongside factory employees. While the company conducts periodic checks, it admits these measures may not entirely prevent grading errors or fraud.
Industry expert Avi Krawitz has raised concerns, noting that such arrangements might “ring some alarm bells” about oversight and integrity.
Regulatory Hurdles
IGI’s draft prospectus also mentions a letter from India’s Ministry of Corporate Affairs received on September 2, alleging accounting noncompliance prior to Blackstone’s acquisition. IGI claims to have resolved most of these issues but acknowledges potential penalties or regulatory actions.
A Pioneering Future for Gem Certification
As IGI prepares to go public, its stronghold in the lab-grown diamond market positions it for continued growth. The IPO marks a pivotal moment for the institute, bridging its rich legacy with a dynamic future in diamond grading and certification.