De Beers Group Institute of Diamonds, part of De Beers Group Industry Services, is providing free access to its online-only Diamond Foundation Course in response to Covid-19. The four-month beginner’s course is delivered via a bespoke digital platform and is designed to provide an interactive and flexible learning experience. No additional resources or reading materials are required, making this a self-contained course that can be completed to suit each participant’s schedule.

The De Beers Group Diamond Foundation Course offers an overview of the entire diamond pipeline, from diamond exploration and rough diamond sorting to jewellery retail and contemporary synthetic (laboratory-grown) diamond detection.

The Diamond Foundation Course is usually priced at $250 but will be made available to all employees of key partners and members of trade associations. It is hoped this will allow retailers, designer-makers, sales professionals and business owners to enhance their knowledge and stay focused during these challenging times.

De Beers Group Industry Services President, Jonathan Kendall, says: “As we navigate an unprecedented change in all our circumstances, we want to do our small part in helping those working from home or in self-isolation to stay connected to their profession in a meaningful way. The Diamond Foundation Course can be done flexibly online and covers all aspects of the diamond pipeline, providing useful insights that can be implemented on the shop floor when business resumes.”

De Beers Group Institute of Diamonds Director of Education & Training, Jodine Perrin, says: “Over the coming days, our industry partners and relevant trade bodies will receive further information on how their employees and members can access the Diamond Foundation Course for free. If you are an independent individual, you can contact De Beers Group Institute of Diamonds directly to request access to the course.”

Participants can download a digital De Beers Group Institute of Diamonds ‘Certificate of Completion’ upon finishing the course.

Staff members are encouraged to contact their employer or trade body representative to learn how to access this limited offer. Further information can be secured by emailing education@debeersgroupinstitute.com.