Key Highlights
- GJEPC honoured Mehul Shah with the “Industry Legend” award at IIJS Bharat Premiere 2026.
- The recognition celebrates his contribution to India’s gem and jewellery industry.
- Mehul Shah currently serves as President of the World Federation of Diamond Bourses (WFDB) and Vice President of Bharat Diamond Bourse.
- Shah dedicated the award to India’s diamond artisans and their exceptional craftsmanship.
- He described Indian diamond polishing as a world-class art deserving global recognition.
- The honour reinforces India’s growing leadership in the international diamond industry.
The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) honoured Mehul Shah, President of the World Federation of Diamond Bourses (WFDB) and Vice President of Bharat Diamond Bourse (BDB), with the prestigious “Industry Legend” recognition during the ongoing IIJS Bharat Premiere 2026 in Mumbai.
The honour was presented as part of GJEPC’s special recognition programme celebrating distinguished leaders whose contributions have significantly shaped the growth of India’s gem and jewellery industry. Industry veterans and global changemakers were felicitated during the ceremony in the presence of leading members of the trade.
Mehul Shah was recognised for his decades of service to the diamond and jewellery industry and for his leadership in representing India’s interests on the global stage. His journey from an accomplished diamantaire to becoming the first Indian President of the World Federation of Diamond Bourses (WFDB) reflects his longstanding commitment to strengthening the global diamond trade and supporting the industry’s continued growth.
Receiving the honour, Mehul Shah dedicated the award to India’s diamond artisans, acknowledging their extraordinary craftsmanship and contribution to establishing India as the world’s leading diamond manufacturing centre.
“I dedicate this award to the Diamond Artisans of India, whose extraordinary craftsmanship has given our nation the pride of becoming the undisputed world leader in diamonds. Their ability to cut & polish a brilliant microscopic diamond which are a few hundred dollars per carats to large a carat diamond worth a few million dollars is a masterpiece of art is nothing short of miraculous. Their artistry deserves to be celebrated alongside the masterpieces of Picasso, M. F. Husain, and Raja Ravi Varma. Every perfectly faceted diamond is a work of art, reflecting years of skill, patience, precision, and passion with full emotions. I salute these remarkable artisans and bow in deep respect to their exceptional talent. This honour truly belongs to them as much as it belongs to me.
My heartfelt gratitude also goes to every member of the Indian and global diamond fraternity, whose unwavering support, encouragement, and good wishes have been my greatest strength. I know that this recognition is being celebrated by our entire diamond family, and I am deeply humbled by your affection and faith in me.
I once again extend my sincere thanks to the GJEPC and the entire diamond community for bestowing this prestigious honour upon me. I accept it with immense gratitude, humility, and a renewed commitment to serve our industry with dedication and integrity.”
The recognition comes at a significant time for India’s diamond industry, with Mehul Shah recently assuming office as the first Indian President of the World Federation of Diamond Bourses, further strengthening India’s leadership and representation within the global diamond trade.
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