Dippal Manchanda: A Lifetime of Excellence

In a glittering ceremony held at Grant Hotel, Birmingham, on July 27th, the Birmingham Assay Office marked its 250 years in existence. One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of the Prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award to none other than Dippal Manchanda, the Technical Director and Chief Assayer of the Birmingham Assay Office, for his exceptional services to the jewellery and precious metals industry.

Dippal Manchanda

Joining the Birmingham Assay Office 22 years ago, Mr Manchanda brought with him a rich breadth of experience and knowledge that only amplified in his years at the office. Today, with a career spanning an impressive 38 years, he is a highly respected figure within the industry and academic community.

The Maestro Behind the Birmingham Assay Office

Dippal Manchanda's sterling career has revolved around the assaying and examination of precious and non-precious metals, alloys, and hazardous substances across a range of industries. His commitment and expertise have seen him hold the prestigious position of Technical Director & Chief Assayer at the Birmingham Assay Office for the last 22 years.

Established in 1773, under an Act of Parliament, the Birmingham Assay Office assays and hallmarks precious metals - silver, gold, platinum, and palladium. The institution is one of only four UK assay offices working to uphold the Hallmarking Act of 1973, ensuring consumer protection for customers purchasing precious metals. In this context, Mr Manchanda's role has been instrumental in upholding high analytical standards within the office, providing scientific and technical support to the team and stakeholders, and maintaining a respected presence in the industry.

An Exemplary Academic

In addition to his industrial contribution, Dippal Manchanda has held esteemed positions in academia. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (FRSC), a Chartered Chemist (CChem), and a Chartered Scientist (CSci), with an MSc in Inorganic Chemistry. His academic credentials only further reinforce his standing in the industry and his commitment to the continuous pursuit of knowledge.

An Influential Figure

Mr Manchanda’s influence reaches beyond the walls of the Assay Office, where he serves as a UK expert and representative on several eminent ISO/CEN technical committees. These include revising the EN1811-Nickel release test standard, a committee on jewellery, and writing the ISO standard on gold plating. He is also the Chairman of the BSI (British Standard Institution) Jewellery & Horology Committee (STI/53).

His research initiatives have notably advanced the field of metal allergy and testing. His significant contribution to the development of the Anchorcert Pro (AP) test methodology is designed to determine the safety of alloy materials for individuals with skin allergies.

A Word from the Awardee

Upon the grand reception of the Lifetime Achievement Award, Dippal Manchanda articulated his sentiments of humble astonishment and profound gratitude. He shared, "Being conferred a lifetime achievement award for my services to the jewellery and precious metal industry was an unexpected honour that took me by surprise! When my name was announced by Mr Doug Henry, CEO & Assay Master of the Birmingham Assay Office as the recipient, a wave of disbelief washed over me. As much as I felt humbled to have been chosen from an array of deserving candidates, I was equally thrilled. I've served the Birmingham Assay Office for 22 years now as Technical Director & Chief Assayer, and the sense of pride I hold for our collective achievements, as well as the camaraderie of my colleagues over the years, is immeasurable."

The Future Ahead

Dippal Manchanda's career is a testament to his dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to the field. His influence and knowledge have not only elevated the standards of the Birmingham Assay Office but have also positively impacted the wider industry. As he continues to lead with humility and wisdom, the future of the Birmingham Assay Office and the industry as a whole looks bright.

To learn more about the Birmingham Assay Office, visit their website or email them at customerservice@theassayoffice.co.uk

Author: Beth England

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