Author: Ruchi Singla

The Türkiye Jewellery Exporters’ Association (JTR) has become a trade association member of the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC), aligning JTR with RJC’s standards on human rights, labour rights, environmental impact, and responsible sourcing.Commitment to Ethical PracticesBurak Yakın, president of JTR, stated, “Joining the RJC marks a pivotal moment for JTR, affirming our dedication to ethical practices globally. The membership facilitates enhanced collaboration with global industry leaders, ensuring that Turkish jewellery meets the highest standards of consumer and environmental expectations.”Supporting the Jewellery IndustryFounded in July 2003 by the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Türkiye and affiliated with the Ministry…

Swarovski has announced its new partnership with pop star Ariana Grande, naming her as the brand’s latest ambassador. This collaboration is set to launch with a Holiday Campaign in 2024.Grande stated, “I am thrilled to be Swarovski’s Brand Ambassador. It’s an honour to represent a House that shares my passion for creativity, pushes the boundaries beyond the world of jewellery and promotes values of unapologetic self-expression. I cannot wait to embark on this journey and to inspire others to embrace their own unique sparkle.”Statements from Swarovski LeadershipGiovanna Engelbert, Swarovski’s Global Creative Director, commented on the collaboration, noting, “Ariana’s charisma and…

The British Hallmarking Council (BHC) and the National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) have officially launched the 2024 HALO Award, aiming to promote and reward efforts in raising consumer awareness about hallmarking in fine jewellery and silverware. Encouraging Hallmark Promotion OnlineThe HALO Award (Hallmarking Awareness and Learning Online) is designed to encourage UK-based online jewellery retailers to educate consumers on the importance and reassurance of hallmarking. The initiative aims to address the necessity for consumer education, given the increases in online sales, global competition, and high precious metal prices. Hallmarks are crucial in ensuring the authenticity of precious metal content, thereby protecting both…

Smiling Rocks’ Dream Necklace, a piece adorned with 54 lab-grown diamonds totalling 74.65 carats set in 18K white gold, was auctioned for £95,000 at The Ormeley Gala Dinner in London. The event, held at Lindley Hall, The Royal Horticultural Halls, raised £1.6 million for Space for Giants and The Aspinall Foundation, organisations dedicated to the protection of African habitats and wildlife. The gala, attended by renowned musicians, royalty, and influential figures from entertainment, fashion, politics, and media, highlighted the importance of sustainable luxury in today’s market.The Dream Necklace: A Milestone in Sustainable LuxurySmiling Rocks’ Dream Necklace, which has been worn…

C W Sellors has completed the £6.15 million National Gemstone Centre at Carsington Reservoir, uniting their jewellery design and manufacturing operations. This facility, named ‘Waters View,’ includes a retail jewellery boutique, exhibition spaces, and training areas. Visitors can also enjoy tours and a dining facility overlooking the reservoir.Professional DevelopmentThe centre offers valuable resources for continuous learning and professional development, attracting talent and industry leaders, and reinforcing the UK’s status as a hub for jewellery excellence.Sustainability and Community ImpactBuilt with sustainability in mind, the centre features efficient energy systems and uses local materials. The project also generated £1.7 million in social…

Pomellato, owned by Kering, has acquired Valenza Setting Lab (VSL) to enhance its manufacturing capabilities in diamond and precious stone settings. Both companies are Italian-based, with Pomellato headquartered in Milan and VSL in Valenza.Background of Valenza Setting LabValenza Setting Lab was established by Marcello Monti and Gilberto Dentelli. The lab employs 24 skilled setters, who previously operated under MG Incassatura, a long-time collaborator of Pomellato. This acquisition continues a strong partnership and steps up Pomellato’s in-house capabilities.Kering’s Continued Investment in PomellatoKering’s 2013 majority stake acquisition in Pomellato started strategic investments to expand Pomellato’s capabilities. This move reinforces Kering’s commitment to its…

Platinum Guild International (PGI USA) has published its latest trend report on platinum engagement rings, detailing six trending styles expected to dominate the holiday proposal season and extend into 2025.Trending Engagement Ring StylesThe report identifies six key trends for platinum engagement rings:Designer ContributionsThe report is illustrated with imagery from a diverse group of designers, including established names in bridal jewelry such as Tacori, Kirk Kara, Stuller, and Rahaminov. It also features contemporary designers like Jade Ruzzo, Sorellina, Harwell Godfrey, and Jade Trau, highlighting a wide array of design talent.Industry Embrace of Platinum“We are excited to present Platinum Guild’s latest engagement…

In an unprecedented shift within the diamond industry, Russia has surpassed Botswana as the leader in rough-diamond production value for the first time in 2023. Despite facing stringent sanctions and a challenging market, Russia’s rough-diamond production achieved a significant milestone, according to the latest Kimberley Process (KP) statistics released this week.Key Production FiguresRussia produced 37.3 million carats of rough diamonds in 2023, valued at $3.61 billion. This represents an average price of $97 per carat, marking a notable increase from the previous year’s output of 41.9 million carats, valued at $3.55 billion with an average price of $85 per carat. This rise…

Fabergé has again collaborated with Gemfields to create the unique Fabergé x Gemfields Malaika Egg. This $1.2 million egg, unveiled in July 2024, features Mozambique’s finest rubies, complemented by diamonds, sapphires, and amethysts. $100,000 from the sale will be donated to the Gemfields Foundation to support community projects in Mozambique.A Celebration of Mozambican RubiesThe Malaika Egg, named after the Swahili word for “angel,” features 308 rubies sourced from the Montepuez ruby mine in Mozambique, which is majority-owned by Gemfields. These rubies are set alongside 4,312 round brilliant-cut white diamonds, 252 round brilliant-cut brown diamonds, 421 round pink sapphires, and 61 amethysts.…

The Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) has released its 2024 Annual Report, entitled “The Artisans of Change: Crafting Our Future Together.” The report highlights the council’s significant growth and outlines new standards and initiatives aimed at promoting responsible practices across the global jewellery and watchmaking industry.Key Growth and Leadership ChangesSince its inception in 2005, the RJC has expanded from 14 founding members to 1,828 members worldwide by the end of 2023, spanning 71 countries. This growth underscores the increasing commitment within the industry to uphold ethical standards and sustainable practices.Melanie Grant, who began her tenure as executive director in 2023, remarked, “It’s…

Ortak Ltd has been awarded Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) certification following a rigorous assessment process. This certification places Ortak Ltd as the sole Scottish jewellery manufacturer with this recognition.Ortak Ltd’s Path to CertificationFounded in 2014, Ortak Ltd manufactures its own jewellery collections and parts for over 30 different companies. The company also supplies bespoke jewellery to Historic Environment Scotland and the Royal Palaces’ visitor centre shops. With a workforce of 45 people at its design and manufacturing base in Kirkwall, Ortak Ltd began pursuing RJC certification two years ago.”The RJC certification was something we were keen to pursue as we’ve…

Rio Tinto has successfully installed a 3.5 megawatt solar power plant at its Diavik Diamond Mine in Canada’s Northwest Territories. This project marks the largest off-grid solar power facility in Canada’s territories.Environmental ImpactThe 6,620-panel solar plant is expected to produce 4.2 million kilowatt-hours of energy annually, which will cut diesel consumption at Diavik by one million litres per year. This reduction translates to a decrease of 2,900 tonnes of CO2 emissions, equivalent to removing 630 cars from the roads each year.Operational IntegrationThe solar power plant will supply up to 25% of Diavik’s electricity needs during its closure period, with commercial…

The Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) has commenced the first public consultation on its proposed Laboratory Grown Materials Standard (LGMS). The consultation period, open from 26 June to 25 August 2024, invites industry stakeholders to provide feedback on the draft standard, marking a significant step towards establishing best practices for lab-grown materials in the jewellery sector.Development and Consultation ProcessThe decision to develop the LGMS was taken by the RJC in 2021. The process includes at least two rounds of public consultations and involves input from the RJC’s multi-stakeholder Standards Committee. This approach ensures the standard reflects a broad range of perspectives…

The e-Register, a secure online database for jewellery and watches, has reached a significant milestone of £3 billion worth of items registered. This achievement coincides with the 30th anniversary of the database, which was launched in 1994 by The Guild of Valuers & Jewellers.Overview of e-RegisterThe e-Register was initially developed to protect and recover jewellery, watches, and silverware. It was created as a complementary service to the Guild of Valuers & Jewellers’ valuation software, GuildPro. The database now holds over £3 billion worth of items and protects more than 350,000 customers.Functionality and ServicesThe e-Register provides a centralised storage of Guild…

In the first quarter of 2024, Botswana’s economy contracted by 5.3%, largely due to the significant decline in global diamond demand. This marks a sharp reversal from the 5.3% growth recorded in the same period last year.Decline in Diamond SectorDiamonds are vital to Botswana’s economy, contributing approximately 80% of the country’s export revenue. The latest figures from Statistics Botswana reveal a steep 27.3% drop in diamond production during the first quarter. This has had a profound impact on the real value added by diamond traders, which plummeted by 46.8%, a stark contrast to the 3.7% growth observed in the previous…

A recent study by Retail Systems Research (RSR), sponsored by Jumpmind, Inc., reveals that nearly 75% of consumers believe their shopping habits have changed significantly, but retail technology is not keeping pace. The report, titled “Why the Retail Store Won’t Survive as a ‘Tech-Free Zone’,” surveyed over 100 U.S.-based retailers and more than 1,100 U.S. shoppers, highlighting the growing divide between consumer expectations and current retail capabilities.Consumer ExpectationsThe survey found that 69% of consumers enjoy browsing in stores, yet almost three-quarters acknowledge a significant shift in their shopping methods over the past three years. Notably, 87% of shoppers want the same…

Allied Gold Limited, the UK’s largest bridal jewellery manufacturer, has acquired bridal jewellery brand, Brown & Newirth Limited. This acquisition, effective immediately, ensures Brown & Newirth remains under British ownership and highlights both companies’ commitment to preserving and enhancing British craftsmanship in the jewellery industry.Commitment to British CraftsmanshipBoth companies have a long history of collaboration, with their directors working together for over a decade. Jerry Anderson, Managing Director of Allied Gold, stated: “We are delighted to welcome Brown & Newirth into the Allied Gold Group. This acquisition underscores our dedication to preserving the rich heritage and exceptional craftsmanship of the…

Goldsmiths’ Fair, scheduled to take place in two segments: from 24-29 September and from 1-6 October at Goldsmiths’ Hall in the City of London, has just announced that ‘early bird’ tickets are now available.Overview and ExhibitorsGoldsmiths’ Fair is an annual event that showcases a curated selection of the UK’s finest jewellers and silversmiths. Since 1983, the fair has been hosted at the historic Goldsmiths’ Hall. This year, 136 exhibitors will present their work, each demonstrating unique techniques and styles in precious metals.The fair highlights both emerging and established makers, chosen through a rigorous selection process to ensure the highest standards…

Queensmith has announced the launch of the Queensmith Jewellery Academy, set to open in September 2024 in Hatton Garden.Programme OverviewThe Academy is designed to nurture and develop the next generation of fine jewellery artisans through a three-year development programme, combining structured training modules, hands-on project work, and personalised coaching. Two main career pathways are opened up by the academy: Goldsmithing and Diamond Setting. Trainees will gain expertise in essential techniques and advanced methods, working with precious metals such as platinum and 18k gold. The goldsmith pathway includes skills such as polishing, ring sizing, and complex jewellery assembly, while the diamond setting…

A new report commissioned by De Beers Group and conducted by the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) sheds light on both the immediate and long-term prospects for the natural diamond industry. The report provides key insights for jewellers and industry stakeholders amidst a rapidly evolving global landscape.Short-Term ChallengesIn 2023, the natural diamond industry encountered several obstacles. The easing of COVID-19 restrictions led to a “bridal catch-up” effect, reducing the immediate demand for diamonds. Additionally, economic headwinds and a growing preference for lab-grown diamonds (LGDs), particularly in the United States, further impacted demand. Changes in stock levels throughout the midstream and downstream…

De Beers has announced a decline in rough diamond sales, citing economic difficulties in key markets and seasonal industry trends. The company’s fifth sales cycle of the year generated $315 million, a significant decrease from the previous year’s figures and the preceding months of this year.Sales Figures and Market ConditionsThe June sales cycle saw a 31% decrease compared to the same period in 2023. This figure is also 18% lower than the $383 million reported in May and 29% lower than April’s total. Despite efforts to stabilize sales by reducing prices for smaller rough diamonds in the previous cycle, no such…

The Gübelin Gem Lab with its three lab locations in Hong Kong, Switzerland and New York has launched its new Gem Passport service, aimed at providing essential information for emeralds, rubies, and blue sapphires up to 3 carats. This service is designed to offer a reliable, cost-effective solution for gemstone verification.Service DetailsThe Gem Passport includes critical identification features such as species and variety, country of origin, and a simplified treatment disclosure. Utilizing Gemtelligence, an AI-powered tool, the service streamlines the testing process, particularly the labor-intensive microscopic assessment, thus reducing costs. Each Gem Passport is priced at CHF 200 (USD 215).Scope…

The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) recently hosted its annual conference, the NAJ Summit, from June 22nd to 24th. This event attracted jewellery professionals from across the UK and beyond for a weekend of learning and networking.Comprehensive Programme for All Trade SegmentsThe summit featured a range of presentations, masterclasses, and workshops for various segments of the jewellery trade. Participants included jewellery valuers, retailers, sales professionals, students, and designers.Valuers’ Conference HighlightsSaturday marked the 35th Valuers’ Conference, sponsored by John Pye Auctions. Experts such as Branko Deljanin, Joanna Whalley, Sarah Fergusson, Charles Bexfield, Dr. Maria McLennan, Dr. Thomas Hainschwang, and Kerry Gregory…

The Company of Master Jewellers (CMJ) has announced its official support for Independents’ Day UK, an annual campaign aimed at promoting small, independent retail businesses whjich is scheduled to take place over the weekend of 6 and 7 July 2024.Local Engagement and PromotionsIndependents’ Day UK encourages shoppers across the country to support local independent retailers by spending money in their shops. This year, the campaign has expanded to a full weekend, with organisers suggesting that if every adult in the UK spent £3 at an independent retailer, it could inject approximately £153 million into the sector.Thousands of independent retailers are expected…

The European Union (EU) has announced significant changes to its sanctions on Russian diamonds, extending the transition period and introducing key exemptions that will affect importers and the wider jewellery industry.Extension of the Sunrise PeriodThe EU has extended the “sunrise period” for its traceability requirements on Russian diamonds by six months. This means the mandatory traceability program for rough and polished natural diamonds will now commence on March 1, 2025, instead of the previously set date of September 1, 2024. This extension follows calls by major industry players, including De Beers, for more time to comply with the new rules.Traceability…

The Bank of England has maintained its interest rates at 5.25% for the seventh consecutive time, describing the decision as “finely balanced.” This decision comes as inflation recently hit the Bank’s 2% target for the first time in three years.Decision DetailsSeven out of nine members of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) voted to keep the rates unchanged. Governor Andrew Bailey stated, “It’s good news that inflation has returned to our 2% target. We need to be sure that inflation will stay low and that’s why we’ve decided to hold rates at 5.25% for now.” Deputy Governor Dave Ramsden and external…

Austrian jewellery brand Swarovski has opened a new store in London’s Canary Wharf, supported by Newmark Retail UK & EMEA. The store is situated at Unit 40, Jubilee Place and  offers 1,569 sq ft of space for Swarovski’s jewellery and accessories.Location SignificanceCanary Wharf, with over 120 stores across five shopping malls, is one of London’s prominent retail destinations. Jubilee Place, known for its full-height glazed shop frontages, hosts various high-end brands, making it a strategic location for Swarovski’s newest store.Swarovski’s Global PresenceFounded in 1895, Swarovski designs, manufactures, and sells crystals and luxury products. The company operates 2,300 boutiques in over 140…

Sierra Consultancy, in partnership with Jewellery Academy Wales, has announced an extension of the registration deadline for its Beginners Summer CAD Course.The new deadline is now set for 4 July, allowing more participants to join the seven-week program designed to equip jewellers with essential CAD design skills using the 3DESIGN software.Course Structure and ContentThe course, scheduled to run from 10 July to 21 August, offers training in computer-aided design (CAD). It aims to meet the growing demand from clients who expect to see CAD models or renders before committing to bespoke jewellery designs. The evening sessions cover topics from basic principles…

Hancocks London has officially opened its new premises at 62 St James’s Street. This move marks a significant milestone in the company’s history, signifying a return to its roots while embracing modernity.A Return to OriginsGuy Burton, Managing Director of Hancocks London, commented on the significance of this expansion: “Throughout our history, Hancocks has served as a distinguished jeweller and manufacturer. In 1849, we were originally the House of Hancocks, known for manufacturing jewellery, important silverware and the like for clients including royalty, heads of state, and the great and the good. In 1916, we went on to become more of…

Designer Freya Rose is set to introduce her new Zodiac collection on 21st June 2024, featuring intricately handcrafted star sign pendants. This latest collection aims to offer a fresh perspective on zodiac jewellery, combining astrological symbols with elegant design elements.Intricately Handcrafted DesignsThe Zodiac collection showcases Freya Rose’s use of Mother of Pearl and 18ct gold-plated Sterling Silver. These materials are crafted to create pendants that embody both artistic expression and personal connection. Freya Rose explains, “I’ve always been drawn to the stars and had a fascination with astrology. I wanted to create a collection that’s inspired by the belt around…