(IDEX Online) - Sarine and GCAL are opening a new grading lab in Surat, India, after the companies merged last year.Sarine, the Israel-based diamond tech business known for its Galaxy mapping systems, acquired a 70 per cent stake in US-based GCAL (Gem Certification & Assurance Lab).GCAL currently operates just one lab, at its New York base. Sarine said the merger would allow GCAL to expand its services globally, something it had been keen to do. The new service in Surat will be badged as GCAL by Sarine.Angelo Palmieri, GCAL president and son of Don and Pamela Palmieri, who founded GCAL in 2001, said: "We are delighted to expand our activities into India and we believe the timing is opportune."Our merger with Sarine leverages the synergy of top-notch gemology and cutting-edge technology, enabling us to enhance our service efficiency for customers while maintaining our renowned commitment to quality."Sarine CEO, David Block, said "We are dedicated to leading the way into a new era of diamond certification - one that relies increasingly on technology. This approach ensures the highest level of grading while introducing unprecedented efficiency."Pic courtesy Sarine