Vasant Mehta, a distinguished figure in the global diamond community, passed away in Mumbai after a lifetime devoted to the trade. The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) described him as a person whose wisdom, commitment, integrity, and deep industry knowledge earned him respect across national borders.
Born in the mid‑1940s, Mehta completed his university education in Calcutta before relocating to the financial hub of India to enter the then‑emerging field of diamond cutting. Coming from a family with a heritage in the diamond business that stretches back to the early part of the last century, he continued the legacy by establishing himself as a senior partner of a Mumbai‑based trading firm that dealt in both diamonds and gemstones.
His involvement with the GJEPC spanned many years, during which he held senior leadership positions on multiple occasions. After serving two separate terms as vice chairman, he was later raised to the council’s top post. In that capacity, he guided the organization through a period of worldwide economic difficulty, actively engaging with government authorities and banking institutions to address pressing concerns about liquidity and financing for the sector.
Recognizing his expertise, a national ministry appointed him to a part‑time directorial role on the board of a government‑owned export credit guarantee corporation. This appointment allowed him to influence policy that supported Indian exporters, particularly those dealing in precious stones and metals.
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Mehta’s reputation extended well beyond national confines. He regularly represented the GJEPC at gatherings of major international bodies such as the World Diamond Council, the World Federation of Diamond Bourses, the International Diamond Manufacturers Association, and the governing forum for the Kimberley Process. Within the IDMA, he held the vice‑presidential portfolio and contributed significantly to the formation of the Kimberley Process in its formative years, helping to shape standards that curb the trade in conflict diamonds.
Colleagues from the international community highlighted his personal qualities as much as his professional achievements. The president of the global federation of jewelry and watchmakers described him as a “good friend and a valued associate,” emphasizing that while he was a prominent businessman, his foremost identity was that of a servant to the industry, both domestically and worldwide. The tribute noted his quiet, dignified manner of dedicating extensive time to the collective benefit of the trade.
GJEPC’s statement conveyed profound sorrow, noting that his unexpected passing represents a considerable loss for the fraternity of diamond professionals. The council extended heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all colleagues who have worked alongside him throughout his extensive career.
