SGL Certified needed an Amazon-like B2B platform to simplify diamond trading in India. This platform would allow buyers to place orders, while SGL handles the sourcing, delivery, and pickup from the vendors.
Earlier, corporate diamond buyers had to coordinate with different diamond vendors to check stone or batch availability, conduct diamond certification, and arrange for the pickup of the products manually through traditional email or call-based mediums. This resulted in inflated costs, longer turnaround times, and frequent miscommunications, making the entire process less efficient and more challenging to manage.
SGL wanted to bridge the gap between buyers and sellers and reduce overheads by creating a centralized platform that would streamline communication, certification, and logistics processes.
They wanted a system seamlessly integrated with their certification platform and other third-party tools in the diamond trade. The solution needed to be robust, and able to handle the unique, custom processes essential to their operations.
We interviewed project stakeholders to map out the proposed system’s processes. Then, we developed a user flow (a step-by-step map of user actions within a system) diagram and designed a database schema to capture all necessary data points for the platform.
We used open-source tools like Node.js for the backend, React.js for the frontend, and PostgreSQL for the database. This setup allowed for “Lego block” development, making the platform easy to grow and connect with other systems.
We also linked SGL’s existing certification system to the new system. This connection lets buyers see SGL-certified diamond’s parameters directly in the new platform.
One of the most challenging features in the system was to implement the ‘hold inventory’ functionality. Basically, whenever any buyer puts a specific SKU in the cart, it would be blocked for viewing and purchase by other buyers. This was a critical functionality for their business as each SKU was one of its kind and couldn’t be exactly replenished if there were 2 orders received in the system. The functionality was rolled out perfectly and we gave additional controls to the admin to manage it in real time.
Our team thoughtfully crafted buyer and seller UI considering the target audience so that it would be intuitive and user-friendly and requires no formal training for effective use. We conducted rigorous testing to ensure the platform operates seamlessly and meets all user requirements effectively.
This platform helps buyers cut sourcing costs by up to 5-7%. Our talks with SGL highlighted this as a major benefit. The streamlined approach removes many manual steps, giving buyers direct access to certified gems while avoiding costly delays.
The platform was designed to be intuitive, requiring zero training for users to navigate and understand its features. Regular system notifications keep users informed at every step, ensuring seamless coordination and transparency. The platform includes a feature that blocks inventory for 24 hours when a product is added to the cart, with customization options available in the admin panel.
Our system includes three portals: admin, buyer, and supplier. Each portal offers specific features to boost transparency and coordination among all parties. Suppliers can track when and where diamonds will arrive, while buyers can view each step of their order. The admin portal oversees all activities, ensuring efficiency and accuracy.
This B2B marketplace shows how we used “Lego block” development to create a flexible, scalable, and integrated solution. It ensures transparency throughout the buying and selling process and meets the needs of a highly sensitive and profitable industry.
