Author: Ruchi Singla

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has announced an enhancement to its emerald reports, offering optional filler identification from 15 December 2024 in  response to industry requests for more detailed information about fillers used in treated emeralds.  Responding to Market Needs The optional service, initially offered at no additional cost, allows clients to receive specific information about filler types present in their emeralds. The service marks a return to a more detailed reporting method previously offered by GIA over 20 years ago but discontinued to focus on the degree of filling. “GIA is making this change in response to market…

T.Gold, the international exhibition for jewellery machinery and technology, will take place from 17 to 21 January 2025 in Vicenza, Italy, alongside the January edition of Vicenzaoro. Organised by the Italian Exhibition Group (IEG), the event will focus on advancements in jewellery manufacturing technology, with an emphasis on innovation and sustainability. Global Participation and Focus Areas T.Gold 2025 will host 170 exhibitors from 16 countries, with 40% of participants representing international companies, highlighting Italy’s prominence in the sector while showcasing global contributions from countries including Germany, Turkey, Switzerland, the US, and the UK. The exhibition will showcase innovations across six…

Element Six, part of De Beers Group, has announced its investment in Lightsynq, a US-based startup focused on quantum computing.  Lightsynq, founded by experts from Harvard University and AWS, is working on innovative solutions to improve how quantum computers communicate and scale. Synthetic diamonds, engineered by Element Six, play a crucial role in enabling this technology, which has applications in fields like cybersecurity and chemistry. Supporting Quantum Advancements with Synthetic DiamondsQuantum computing, while still in its early stages, has the potential to revolutionise industries with its ability to process complex calculations far faster than traditional computers. One major challenge in…

Applications are now open for the Goldsmiths’ Centre’s ‘Getting Started Online 2025’, a free, week-long introduction to business course for early-career jewellery and silversmithing professionals. Scheduled to run from 17th to 21st March 2025, the programme offers practical guidance on launching and managing a creative business. Programme Highlights The course, hosted entirely online, provides participants with live webinars led by industry experts. It covers key topics such as branding, product development, and sales channel strategies, addressing challenges often faced by emerging designers and makers. Participants can also benefit from networking opportunities and the chance to apply for the Spotlighting Getting…

The Watches of Switzerland Group PLC (WoS) has published its financial results for the first half (H1) of FY25, reporting a 4% revenue increase in constant currency to £785 million. This growth reflects improved performance in the second quarter (Q2) and contributions from the acquisition of Roberto Coin. However, profitability has been affected by rising costs and changes in product mix. Key Financial Highlights Revenue Performance Profitability Metrics Strategic Investments and Debt Strategic and Operational Developments Geographic and Product Diversification WoS reported increased revenue contributions from the US, now comprising 45% of total sales. The integration of Roberto Coin has…

De Beers Group has announced the winners of its 2024 Shining Light Awards, a biennial jewellery design competition aimed at fostering talent from Botswana, Canada, Namibia, and South Africa. The awards are part of the company’s initiative to develop skills in jewellery design and manufacturing among young professionals. Competition Overview Launched in 1995, the Shining Light Awards provide a platform for designers aged 18 to 35 who are enrolled in or have completed jewellery design programmes. Participants are required to design a complete collection, including a ring, necklace, earrings, bangles, and bracelets. This year’s competition attracted 104 entries under the…

Alan Cohen has been announced as the recipient of the 2024 National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) Chair’s Award. The accolade was presented during the Benevolent Society’s Centenary Christmas Charity Ball, sponsored by Presman Mastermelt, in recognition of his voluntary contributions to the jewellery industry. Pivotal Work on Sanctions and Supply Chain Stability Cohen’s recent efforts to address the implementation of Russian diamond sanctions played a significant role in his selection for the award. His work with G7 nations, government bodies, and the World Diamond Council helped minimise the impact of these sanctions on the UK’s diamond supply chain, supporting industry…

Scientists and engineers from the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) and the University of Bristol have developed the world’s first carbon-14 diamond battery. This innovative technology utilises radioactive carbon-14, a by-product of nuclear reactors, to create an energy source capable of powering devices for thousands of years. How the Carbon-14 Diamond Battery Works The carbon-14 diamond battery generates power through the radioactive decay of carbon-14, which has a half-life of 5,700 years. This process is comparable to how solar panels convert light into electricity; however, instead of photons, the battery captures fast-moving electrons within the diamond structure. The carbon-14 used…

The International Gemological Institute (IGI) has announced an initial public offering (IPO) valued at $499 million (Rs 4,225 crore). The IPO will open for subscription from 13 to 17 December, with shares scheduled to list on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and National Stock Exchange (NSE) on 20 December. Background on IGI and the IPO The IPO comes following Blackstone Group’s acquisition of IGI for $570 million in May 2023 from Fosun International and former IGI CEO Roland Lorie. The offering values IGI at approximately $3.5 billion. Overview of IGI’s Operations Founded in Antwerp in 1975 by Marcel Lorie, IGI…

The Pantone Colour Institute has announced its Colour of the Year for 2025: Pantone 17-1230, also known as “Mocha Mousse.”  The warm, rich brown hue has been described as embodying connections to the natural world, everyday comforts, and a refined sense of luxury. This selection marks the 26th year of Pantone’s annual Colour of the Year programme, which influences trends across fashion, interiors, and jewellery. Why ‘Mocha Mousse’? According to Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Colour Institute, Mocha Mousse resonates on multiple sensory levels, evoking the comfort and richness of chocolate, coffee, and cacao. This earthy tone was…

Boodles has reported a pre-tax profit of £18.1m for the latest financial year, despite a 1.3% dip in sales to £104.9m.  The company operates high-profile stores across the UK and Ireland, including locations in London, Manchester, Liverpool, Chester, and Dublin. Financial Performance and Dividends In the accounts filed for Boodle & Dunthorne Ltd, the company noted a slight decline in pre-tax profit from £19.5m in 2023. During the same period, £6.4m in dividends were distributed to shareholders. Despite the minor sales contraction, trading for the current financial year is described as “encouragingly strong,” with significant growth in both revenue and…

India, the world’s largest hub for diamond polishing, is intensifying its call for a domestic diamond export certification centre following the recent establishment of a certification facility in Botswana. The global diamond trade has been navigating significant regulatory changes since the G7’s January 2024 ban on Russian-origin diamonds, extending this restriction to diamonds processed in intermediary countries such as India. By March 2024, Antwerp, emerged as the sole global export certification centre, further complicating the supply chain for India’s diamond exporters. While Botswana’s certification facility has provided relief to African diamond manufacturers and traders by reducing costs and streamlining compliance,…

The Company of Master Jewellers (CMJ) has unveiled the CMJ Academy, a complimentary online training resource designed to support retail sales teams by providing foundational knowledge in jewellery and watch-related topics. The CMJ Academy features eight interactive modules, each addressing a fundamental area of jewellery retailing. Topics covered include hallmarking, precious metals, jewellery design, diamonds, gemstones, rings, watches, and sales techniques. Each module concludes with an online assessment, and participants who successfully complete all modules receive a CMJ Academy certificate. The programme is designed to cater to those new to the industry, ensuring no prior experience is required. Jo Bourne,…

De Beers has released the dates for its 2025 rough diamond sales, confirming 10 sights across the year. At its final sight of 2024, De Beers reduced rough diamond prices by 10% to 15% as part of efforts to address market imbalances. The company has also adjusted its supply flexibility, reflecting a strategy shift to better align with current demand. Additionally, in 2025, the December sight will be shortened to four days, compared to the traditional five. Full Schedule of De Beers’ 2025 Sights The schedule for De Beers’ 2025 sights is as follows:

The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) has announced the appointment of Mehdi Saadian as its new Vice Chair. Saadian, who serves as Director of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) London campus, is an active member of the Institute of Registered Valuers (IRV) and the Academy of Experts. Saadian has been a member of the NAJ’s National Committee since 2022, where he has contributed to enhancing the organisation’s governance model. He will assume the position of Chair in 2026, succeeding the current Chair, Adam Jacobs. Expressing gratitude for his appointment, Saadian stated: “I’m truly honoured to take on the role…

De Beers has reduced prices for its rough diamonds by 10% to 15% at its final sight of 2024, according to industry sources. The adjustment, applicable to most diamond categories, seeks to address weak demand and better reflect open market pricing. Addressing Price Disparities The price cuts aim to narrow the gap between De Beers’ rough diamond prices and goods sold at tenders and auctions, which were reportedly 20% to 25% cheaper in some categories. Sightholders had expressed concerns about De Beers maintaining price levels despite declining demand. A De Beers spokesperson declined to comment on the price changes but…

Footfall across UK retail locations fell by 4.5% year-on-year in November 2024, according to data from the British Retail Consortium (BRC) and Sensormatic. The decrease contrasts with a smaller decline of 1.1% recorded in October. Shopping centres saw the steepest drop at 6.1%, compared to 3.7% for high streets and 1.1% for retail parks. All four nations of the UK experienced a reduction in footfall, with Wales seeing the largest decline at 7.1%, followed by Scotland at 6.8%, England at 4.2%, and Northern Ireland at 2.8%. Challenges Impacting Retailers Commenting on the data, Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the British…

Angola has replaced Russian diamond miner Alrosa with Maaden International, an Omani investment fund, in its diamond-mining operations. Alrosa, the Russian state-controlled diamond miner, previously held a 41% stake in the Catoca diamond mine, one of the largest globally. The company has faced sanctions from the United States, United Kingdom, and European Union since 2022, linked to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. “Sanctions on the Russian diamond industry created difficulties for the Angolan diamond industry and for the credibility of our diamonds in the international market,” said Angola’s Mining Minister, Diamantino Azevedo. He explained that President João Lourenço directed the Ministry…

The World Platinum Investment Council (WPIC) has forecasted a global platinum supply deficit for the third consecutive year in 2025, citing constrained mine output despite improvements in recycling. The deficit is projected to reach 539,000 troy ounces, down from the revised 682,000-ounce shortfall expected in 2024. The imbalance reflects a combination of increasing demand in key sectors such as automotive and jewellery and declining mined supply, particularly in South Africa, the largest producer of platinum globally. Automotive Demand Reaches Eight-Year High The automotive sector is projected to consume 3.2 million ounces of platinum in 2025, marking its highest demand since…

The UK Jewellery, Silverware, and Allied Crafts (UKJSAC) Roundtable has presented its insights to the Department for Business and Trade in response to the government’s Industrial Strategy Green Paper, which was unveiled in September. This consultation, named ‘Invest 2035’, aims to shape the UK’s long-term economic strategy by identifying growth opportunities across various sectors, including the creative industries. The UKJSAC Roundtable’s submission focuses on the jewellery sector’s economic, social, and cultural contributions. It aligns with the government’s recognition of Precious Metals and Gemstones as important components of the creative industries. Ben Massey, Chief Executive of the National Association of Jewellers…

Recent research from Capital on Tap reveals that UK consumers are willing to pay a premium for jewellery from independent businesses, particularly during the holiday shopping season. The findings highlight the value customers place on unique and personalised offerings, which could present opportunities for jewellers to adapt their marketing and product strategies. Jewellery Among Top Items for Spending Premiums The study surveyed 2,000 UK adults to explore shopping preferences with small businesses. Jewellery ranked as the second-highest category for additional spending, with consumers prepared to pay an average of £20.58 more for jewellery from smaller sellers. This placed jewellery just…

Botswana is set to establish an export certification system for rough diamonds in collaboration with the G7 diamond technical team. This move aims to bolster traceability measures, ensuring compliance with G7 restrictions on Russian-origin diamonds while supporting global efforts to enhance transparency in the diamond trade. The collaboration follows the G7’s introduction of an import ban on Russian diamonds, which came into effect on 1 January 2024. This ban was further extended on 1 March 2024 to cover Russian diamonds processed in third countries. To support these measures, the first certification node capable of verifying diamond origins became operational in…

The diamond industry is navigating a period of significant transformation, as highlighted in a recent report by McKinsey & Company. Natural diamond prices have fallen to multi-year lows, driven by shifting consumer preferences, the rise of lab-grown diamonds (LGDs), and increasing focus on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) concerns. McKinsey’s analysis underscores the need for industry players to adapt to these evolving market dynamics to remain competitive. Natural Diamond Prices Under Pressure McKinsey notes that natural diamond prices have declined sharply following a pandemic-driven surge. The reversal is attributed to several factors, including the rapid growth of LGDs, which offer…

Russia’s state-controlled diamond mining company Alrosa has announced plans to scale back production and reduce its workforce in 2025. This decision, according to CEO Pavel Marinychev, follows a period of declining diamond prices, weaker global demand and the impact of Western sanctions. Impact of Sanctions and Market Decline Alrosa, the world’s largest producer of rough diamonds by volume, has described the global diamond market as being in a “deep crisis”, highlighting that prices have declined for the second consecutive year. Compounding these difficulties are G7 and EU sanctions – to manage these pressures, the company plans to suspend operations in…

Luk Fook has reported a 27.2% decline in revenue for the six months ending 30 September 2024, amounting to HKD 5.45 billion, a decline mainly attributed to elevated gold prices affecting consumer demand. The gross profit margin increased by 4.9 percentage points to 32.7%, resulting in a gross profit of HKD 1.78 billion. Impact of Gold Hedging and Net Profit Gold hedging losses during the period reached HKD 230 million, marking a significant reversal from the HKD 55 million gain recorded in the same period last year. Operating profit dropped by 53% to HKD 536 million, with the operating profit…

Digital marketplace Nivoda has announced the successful raising of $51 million in its latest funding round. The funding will support Nivoda’s plans to enhance its supply chain operations and expand its marketplace to include a broader range of jewellery products. Funding Details and Future Plans The investment round was led by Northzone, a new investor, with participation from existing investors Avenir, Headline, Abstract Ventures, and Canaan Partners. This funding brings Nivoda’s total raised capital to $96 million. “Nivoda has quickly emerged as a category-defining company that powers small retailers around the world. Nivoda is building a truly pioneering technology platform…

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has expanded its Board of Governors with the addition of two new members: Lisa Bridge, President and CEO of Ben Bridge Jeweler, and Dr Wendy Bohrson, Professor of Geology at the Colorado School of Mines.  New Members Bring Industry and Academic Expertise Lisa Bridge is the fifth-generation leader of Ben Bridge Jeweler, a Berkshire Hathaway subsidiary. Her qualifications include a GIA Graduate Gemologist diploma and a Certified Gemologist title from the American Gem Society (AGS). Bridge has held leadership roles in industry organisations, including serving as the immediate past president of the AGS board…

De Beers Group has launched its ‘Forever Present’ marketing campaign in the United States to promote natural diamonds during the holiday gifting period.  The campaign continues the use of the classic “A Diamond Is Forever” tagline, which was reintroduced to De Beers’ marketing last year. Focus on Emotional Value The ‘Forever Present’ campaign promotes natural diamonds as meaningful gifts for commemorating relationships and milestones. Its central message, “natural connections deserve natural diamonds,” positions them as suitable for marking special occasions. The campaign showcases jewellery designs such as studs, tennis bracelets, anniversary bands, three-stone rings, and solitaire pendants. Featuring real-life couples,…

Gold prices have hit historic highs, recently surpassing US$2,700 per ounce, sparking industry-wide speculation about what’s driving this surge. While numerous factors influence gold’s value, one question stands out: is the rapid rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies playing a role? That’s the question that the World Gold Council recently answered, and it’s fascinating reading. Rising Gold Prices and AI Demand Over the past two decades, gold demand in electronics has fluctuated, peaking at 328 tonnes in 2010 before declining to 249 tonnes in 2023. However, a modest recovery is underway, with AI emerging as a significant driver. AI-powered systems,…

A new campaign at London Luton Airport, in collaboration with jeweller Queensmith, aims to protect the element of surprise for those planning secret proposals. The initiative, called “Ask for Harry,” discreetly informs security staff about engagement rings during checks to help maintain the surprise. Addressing Security Challenges for Secret Proposers The campaign was developed in response to challenges faced by travellers carrying engagement rings through airport security. When prompted with the phrase, “Does Harry still work here?” security staff are informed that the traveller is carrying a hidden engagement ring. While bags and their contents are still subject to standard…