Mumbai: The Indian gem and jewellery industry has lost one of its most respected statesmen. Vasant Mehta, former Chairman of the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), passed away today, leaving behind a remarkable legacy built over several decades of dedicated service to the industry.
A second-generation diamantaire, Mehta graduated from Calcutta University and moved to Mumbai in 1966, at a time when India’s diamond-cutting and polishing industry was still in its formative years. He joined his family business and went on to become founder and senior partner of V. Rameshchandra & Co.
His association with GJEPC began remarkably early—in 1969, when he joined the Council as an honorary member. Over the years, he held several important positions, including Vice Chairman, before being unanimously elected Chairman in 2008. He served as Chairman from 2008 to 2010.
Mehta’s contribution went far beyond his formal positions. He was a strong advocate for transforming India from primarily a diamond-manufacturing centre into a global jewellery manufacturing and design hub. During his tenure and subsequent years of industry leadership, he consistently promoted Indian jewellery and represented the country’s gem and jewellery sector on international platforms. GJEPC itself has recognised that, during his chairmanship, Mehta helped promote India as a global jewellery manufacturing hub.
He was also deeply involved in the institutional development of the industry. Mehta served for many years on GJEPC’s Banking, Insurance and Taxation Committee and was associated with the Bharat Diamond Bourse and its legal committee. Internationally, he served as Vice President of the International Diamond Manufacturers Association and was associated with the World Diamond Council. He also served as a special adviser to the Chinese diamond industry.
Another important chapter of his career was his contribution to education and skill development. Mehta played a pivotal role in the creation and development of the Indian Institute of Gems & Jewellery (IIGJ), Mumbai. He served as its Chairman for many years and helped establish it as an important centre for jewellery education and skill training.
His commitment to the industry was widely recognised. GJEPC honoured him with its Lifetime Achievement Award, while his peers continued to acknowledge his contribution to the growth and internationalisation of India’s gem and jewellery business.
Mr. Mehta had a significant association with the International Diamond Manufacturers Association (IDMA) and served as its Vice President for many years. The official IDMA records list him as Vice President across several World Diamond Congresses, including 2002, 2004, 2006, 2008, 2010 and 2012.
In fact, this was an important part of his international industry career. He represented Indian diamond manufacturers at global forums and was actively involved in discussions on rough-diamond supply, industry promotion, the Kimberley Process and other issues affecting diamond manufacturing
Vasant Mehta belonged to a generation of industry leaders who helped build the foundations on which India’s modern gem and jewellery sector stands today. His long association with GJEPC, his efforts to promote Indian jewellery globally, his contribution to education and his work on international industry bodies have left an enduring imprint.
The industry will remember Vasant Mehta not merely as a former GJEPC Chairman, but as a visionary diamantaire, institution-builder and elder statesman who devoted his life to strengthening India’s position on the world gem and jewellery map.
