From the archive record
Here is how a rough crystal is turned in to a beautiful sparkly gemstone. A cutter is holding the stone by hand against the wheel. Fine gemstones dust has been rubbed on the spinning plate. Water drips on to the plate to avoid heat build up. The gems and jewellery sector has been one of the fastest-growing sectors in India in the past few years. The sector has gained global popularity because of its talented craftsmen, its superior practices in cutting and polishing fine diamonds and precious stones, and its cost-efficiencies. The sector has been vital to the Indian economy as well; during 2008-09, the sector accounted for around 13% of the country’s total exports. Gold jewellery is the most preferred form of jewellery in demand in India as it is considered auspicious to purchase gold on m