Podcast: The Transformation of Diamond Grading

RAPAPORT... Grading laboratories are widely viewed as the guardians of trust in the diamond industry, and have a long history of using technology to authenticate the product. But the trade is seeing some disruption as the larger labs adopt artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to enhance their grading capabilities. In the third installment of Rapaport's podcast series, "Technology and the Diamond Trade," sponsored by Sarine Technologies, panelists explore the effect that AI and other digital initiatives will have on the grading environment. They debate the extent to which AI can resolve disputes about grading inconsistencies, and how automation of grading processes might impact the trade, among other topics. Rapaport Senior Analyst Avi Krawitz moderates the discussion with studio guests Don Palmieri, president of the Gem Certification and Assurance Lab (GCAL), and Pritesh Patel, chief operating officer at the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). In addition, Rapaport Senior News Reporter Joshua Freedman interviews David Block, CEO of Sarine Technologies, who provides his perspective as head of a technology company operating in the grading space. Listen to the podcast below, and view more information about the technology series here. Images (from left): Don Palmieri, David Block and Pritesh Patel.