Panama Paving Way for Gems

Panama should be certifying gems by year’s end as it continues in its quest to become the diamond capital of Latin America.

Representatives of the International Gemological Institute said on Tuesday that they are committed to the prompt installation of the Panama Diamond Exchange and the development of a free zone for the expansion of the jewelry business in the region.  In October, the institute hosted an educational and grading seminar at Panama’s Bristol Hotel in an effort to provide Panama area diamond and jewelry manufacturers and retailers a competitive advantage.

The Panama Diamond Exchange is a member of the World Federation of Diamond Bourses, a federation founded in 1947 and now servicing 100,000 jewelry stores through 15,000 affiliated merchants.

See also:  Panama Courted by Diamond Dealers.