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31 Oct 2024

Pravin B Mehta Honored at 40th Anniversary Celebrations of IDCA New York

Pravin Bhogibhai Mehta, a well-known name in the diamond industry in USA, was honored by the Indian Diamond and Colorstone Association (IDCA), New York at its recent 40th anniversary celebrations. Pravinbhai was the Founding President of the association and held office from 1984-86.

IDCA is a not-for-profit organisation that provides a platform for its members to network with each other and promotes the business of its members within the United States.

The association honoured Pravinbhai “in deep appreciation and recognition of the visionary leadership” he provided to IDCA.

Pravinbhai’s family has a long legacy of professionalism and achievement. His father, the first civil engineer to graduate from his district in India during British rule, played a significant role in developing India after Independence by building dams, canals, roads, bridges, and even royal palaces.

Pravinbhai earned early accolades in the food and dairy industries, He was associated with formulating Limca and Thums Up, both top sellers in those times and was the first Indian-born Chief Chemist of Nestlé India.

In the 1970s, he shifted to the diamond industry, guided by Late Shri Narendrabhai Mehta, and set up the family company Occidental Gems/ Diamond Days. Inspired by industry giants such as Lazare Kaplan, Harry Winston, Jack Grobard, Kirtibhai Mehta, among others, the company was built around the principles of corporate ethics, ideals, and responsibility, and was soon known for supplying perfectly graded and calibrated melee diamonds. Throughout his journey, Pravinbhai was ably supported by his wife Smt Malti Mehta and son Nicky Mehta.

Over the years, Occidental Gems/Diamond Days (now steered by the 3rd generation) was recognized as one of the prominent distributors of polished diamonds in the US, with customers including department stores to multi-chain retailers. It also was among the pioneers in introducing various new techniques and technologies to the diamond industry.

With its many achievements, the company became the first Indian company to earn AGS accreditation.

Speaking at the function, Pravinbhai said, “IDCA has evolved through conferences, conclaves, and IT workshops, all designed to help our honorable and professional members grow and innovate. Its mission remains focused on empowering our members, meeting challenges, and embracing new opportunities. I am inspired by the next generation of leaders and trailblazers who carry our hopes for the future. Together, let us continue to innovate, inspire, and lead our industry forward.”

Click here to view video of Pravinbhai's speech