The International Gemological Institute (IGI) has announced a major expansion of its certification services in response to surging global demand for lab-grown diamonds (LGDs). In the first half of 2025, IGI recorded a remarkable 24% increase in lab-grown diamond certifications compared to the previous year, reflecting a rapid shift in consumer preferences and industry trends.

This growth has translated into strong financial results. IGI's profits rose by 63%, a figure driven largely by the rise of LGDs in markets such as the United States, China, and India. As a result, the institute is scaling its operations — including opening a new certification center in Surat, India, one of the world’s leading hubs for diamond cutting and trading.

The new Surat center will operate from the recently completed Surat Hira Bourse, a massive complex set to become a cornerstone of India's gem trade. IGI says the move will help reduce turnaround times for certification and meet growing demand from both domestic and international retailers.

According to IGI representatives, the institute has certified over 1.2 million lab-grown diamonds in the past year alone — a number that continues to climb. The popularity of LGDs is largely driven by their affordability, visual similarity to natural diamonds, and increasing acceptance among younger consumers.

However, the institute also emphasizes its ongoing commitment to clarity in labeling and consumer education. In an era where lab-grown and natural stones are often visually indistinguishable, certification remains essential for transparency and trust in the market.

This expansion confirms a powerful trend in the industry: lab-grown diamonds are no longer a niche product — they are mainstream, and organizations like IGI are quickly adapting to meet this new reality.