Author: Abidemi Fadekemi

The UAE is set to chair the Kimberley Process in 2024, with the vice-chair role commencing in 2023. This decision, made at the Kimberley Process Plenary in Botswana, highlights the UAE’s growing role in the international diamond industry. Implications for Jewellers This role may provide stability and continuity during market uncertainties, as expressed by Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman and CEO of DMCC: “The Kimberley Process is a global body that strives to enable trade to flourish in a safe and stable environment so that all participants and their dependent societies can benefit to the full… we are committed to…

British designer Kitty Joyas is set to launch a 15-piece fine jewellery collection on Thursday 26th October 2023. Crafted in the brand’s South London studio, the collection includes necklaces, rings, and earrings. Design Approach Kitty Joyas ‘Fine’ extends the brand’s core design values, which have been evident in its Everyday collection for the past 4 years. Known for its use of colour, textured metal finishes, and bohemian charm, the brand has seen a 42% YoY revenue growth from 2022 to 2023. The collection combines 14ct recycled gold with natural diamonds, tourmalines, citrines, and sapphires. The colour palette, inspired by Barcelona’s…

The Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC), the Mineralogical & Geological Museum at Harvard (MGMH), and the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) have once again joined forces. Following their collaborative efforts at the State of the Art Summit in June 2023, these industry leaders have announced the launch of JewelryArts24 during Frieze Week 2023. The Call for Responsible Practices The State of the Art Summit, held at the Mineralogical and Geological Museum, Harvard University, highlighted the pressing need for responsible practices within the jewelry industry. A significant takeaway from the summit was the importance of involving the younger generation, promoting storytelling, and…

Cooksongold, one of the UK’s leading jewellery-making suppliers, has announced the appointment of Paul Cooper as its new Managing Director. This decision follows a comprehensive recruitment process, ensuring the best fit for the company’s leadership. International Experience Paul Cooper brings a rich background in manufacturing to the role, with significant experience both within the UK and internationally. Notably, his previous roles have seen him oversee subsidiaries in Brazil, Mexico, and Canada during his tenure in the USA. Additionally, Cooper has lived in Singapore, managing several Asian subsidiaries, further solidifying his global perspective. Transition and Future Plans Over the upcoming months,…

Antwerp-based International Gemological Institute (IGI), part of the Blackstone portfolio, has announced a significant leadership change that will mark the beginning of a new era for the organisation. Roland Lorie, who served as the CEO for nearly five decades, will step down and be succeeded by Tehmasp Printer as the Global CEO, effective October 1, 2023. Lorie’s tenure has been marked by the creation of the largest network of gemological laboratories and schools across the globe, cementing IGI’s position as a leading certification authority for natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds, coloured stones, and finished jewellery. Tehmasp Printer: A Seasoned Leader Printer…

The London Diamond Bourse (LDB) has launched a Mentor Programme for those starting careers in the diamond and jewellery industry. Launching at the GIA Careers fair on 14th July 2023, the programme is intended to provide support to students and newcomers in the sector. Programme Structure Each participant of the LDB Mentor Programme will be paired with a mentor. These mentors, drawing from their rich industry experience and comprehensive understanding of the sector, will facilitate monthly sessions with the mentees assigned to them. These meetings, designed for maximum participant convenience, can take place face-to-face or online, thereby offering flexibility. Charlotte…

Online diamond marketplace Nivoda is broadening its product offering with the introduction of a new gemstone category, marking a key strategic expansion for the company. Meeting the Growing Demand for Gemstones The introduction of gemstones to the Nivoda marketplace comes in response to the escalating demand. The expanded platform now boasts a selection of over 35,000 natural gemstones, including sapphires, rubies, emeralds, alexandrites, and tourmaline. To facilitate seamless browsing and purchasing, Nivoda has standardised essential gemstone characteristics like clarity, treatment, colour, and cut. This step aims to make the buying process more convenient for jewellers by offering consistency in the…

Gemological Science International (GSI) has announced the completion of its first advanced gemology program, the Colored Stone Professional Program. This 14-week diploma program, run at GSI’s Jaipur, India campus, welcomed students from across India. “It feels nostalgic to see students graduating from an institution like GSI, which provides a recent and detailed curriculum in an internationally made facility,” says Ms. Sunita Shekhawat, an accomplished Indian jewellery designer known for her intricate craftsmanship and revival of traditional meenakari techniques. Shekhawat adds, “The students using gemology as their base should showcase Indian culture and art when they design gemstone jewellery”. Dr K.L…

The Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) has announced the election of new members to its Executive Committee and Board of Directors during its Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on 9 June. Newly Elected Leadership In-line with industry-wide efforts to amplify responsible and sustainable business practices, RJC members elected three individuals to its Executive Committee and nine to its Board. RJC Chairman David Bouffard praised the election process, saying, “RJC’s strength comes from the engagement of our 1,700 committed members, a deeply experienced board and executive leadership team, and a shared belief in building sustainable, responsible business practices across our industry. These…

Unprecedented Collaboration In a significant event for the jewellery industry, The Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC), The Mineralogical and Geological Museum at Harvard University (MGMH), and the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) have announced their first-ever collaboration. This unique partnership will culminate in an in-person event at Harvard University on the 23rd of June, called the ‘State of the Art Jewelry Summit’. The summit signifies the coming together of three of the most influential entities in the field, aiming to discuss and dissect the challenges, opportunities, and the future of responsible practices in the jewellery sector. 2012 GIA Laboratory Bangkok Field…

Decision to Close Leonard Dews, a longstanding jewellery business in the North West, has announced its impending closure, due to the owner retiring. Founded in 1877, the Blackpool-based business has been a key provider of original and quality jewellery and watches for nearly a century and a half. The store’s closure, announced by current owner Michael Hyman, signals the end of a significant era in the local and wider jewellery industry. Final Sale Event Leonard Dews is currently hosting a large closing down sale. The in store event will offer customers the opportunity to purchase items, such as diamond rings,…

Jewellery designer Lucy Quartermaine is extending the reach of her brand into Ireland and Northern Ireland. This expansion reflects an effort to tap into new markets and engage a wider audience. Known for her modern and distinctive designs, Lucy Quartermaine is bringing a fresh perspective to the jewellery landscape in these regions. The brand has broadened its reach by partnering with several new stockists: Precious Rocs Jewellers, Newcastle, County Down (Northern Ireland) Faith Jewellers, County Armagh (Northern Ireland) C R Lowry, Belfast (Northern Ireland) Temptation Jewellers, Claremorris (Ireland) Each of these outlets will carry Lucy Quartermaine’s best-selling sterling silver Drop…

Private equity funds managed by Blackstone have acquired the International Gemological Institute (IGI) from Shanghai Yuyuan Tourist Mart (Group) Co., Ltd, a subsidiary of Fosun, and Roland Lorie of the founding family. Sources indicate that the sale price approximately $530 million, although this is yet to be confirmed. IGI’s Impact on the Jewellery Industry IGI, founded in 1975 in Antwerp, holds the title of the world’s first gemological laboratory to hold ISO accreditation in both natural and lab-grown diamonds. With a global presence of 29 laboratories and 18 schools of gemology across 10 countries, it has emerged as a leader in…

In response to Russia’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has declared a ban on the import of Russian diamonds into the UK. This move was announced at the recent G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan, with the Prime Minister stating that he wants to ensure “Russia pays a price” for its actions in Ukraine. Russia is the world’s largest diamond producer, with an output of 35,958kct for 2022, albeit an 8.08% decline from 2021. Russia’s diamond industry was worth approximately $4bn (£3.2bn) in exports in 2021. The Size of The Impact in the UK Russia is not directly…

What if every diamond, gemstone, or piece of gold you wore could tell a story? A story of fairness, sustainability, and respect for our planet. That’s the beauty of ethical jewellery. As we become more conscious about our choices and their impact on the world, ethical jewellery represents a shift towards sustainable practices within the jewellery industry. In this guide, we’ll explore what ethical jewellery is and why it’s more important now than ever before. We’ll take you on a journey from the mines to the market, highlighting the process behind creating such pieces. You’ll learn about the positive impact…

London jeweller Queensmith has made an undisclosed acquisition of the web domain of Vashi.com, following Vashi’s recent liquidation. In addition to obtaining the domain, Queensmith has also employed a number of former Vashi staff members who were left redundant in the aftermath of the company’s collapse. Vashi.com’s Domain Purchased by London Jeweller Queensmith Vashi, previously known for its focus on bespoke jewellery and engagement rings, experienced a setback despite its impressive sales of £100 million in 2021 and a valuation of £250 million just a few months earlier. The company failed to secure further investment from backers, leading to its…

Luxury watch and jewellery retailer, Goldsmiths, is gearing up for a significant expansion at Liverpool ONE. Part of the Watches of Switzerland Group, the brand is planning to double the size of its current store and introduce its new ‘Goldsmiths Luxury’ concept. Goldsmiths Luxury The Goldsmiths Luxury concept is the brand’s latest initiative to enhance the customer experience – the remodeled store will include a hospitality bar and lounge area, providing a relaxing environment for shoppers. The inclusion of VIP consultation rooms and trusted service and repair specialists aims to further underscore Goldsmiths’ commitment to customer service. With an eye-catching…

The coronation of King Charles was a splendid event filled with heritage jewellery choices by the royal family. Although there weren’t any tiaras worn, apparently due to the King’s wish for a pared back ceremony, there was still plenty of sparkle on display. Queen Camilla Queen Camilla, wore the iconic Coronation Necklace, featuring 25 graduated brilliant diamonds and the remarkable 22.48-carat Lahore Diamond, originally created for Queen Victoria in 1858, by the British Crown Jeweller Garrard. This is also the same necklace that Queen Elizabeth II, wore for her coronation in 1953. Kate Middleton Princess Kate, paying homage to her…

Watches of Switzerland, one of the UK’s leading luxury watch retailers, has announced a change in its financial leadership. Current CFO Bill Floydd is set to step down from his role on 12 May 2023, by mutual agreement with the group. The transition will mark the return of former CFO Anders Romberg to the position, adding another chapter to his already extensive history with the company. The Experienced Successor Romberg previously held the CFO title at Watches of Switzerland from 2014 to 2021. His deep knowledge of the group, combined with his proven track record of financial leadership, make him…

Swiss luxury watchmaker, Breitling, has opened a new store in the heart of Dublin, in association with Paul Sheeran Jewellers, a respected watch retailer with over 30 years of experience in timepieces and jewellery retail in the region. The boutique includes a bar area designated for hosting events, offering guests a taste of Breitling’s renowned hospitality. Management’s Perspective Gavin Murphy, Managing Director of Breitling UK & Eire, expressed his excitement about the new boutique, stating, “We are so excited about the opening of this new breathtaking boutique in the heart of Dublin. Partnering with Paul Sheeran to deliver a complete…

While yellow gold is now firmly back in fashion, white gold continues to be a popular choice for all types of jewellery. White gold is a compound of gold and at least one white metal, usually nickel, manganese, or palladium, plus a protective covering of rhodium. While the make-up of white gold may be slightly different to yellow gold, the way its purity is measured is the same – through karats, with ’24 karat gold’ being 100% pure. Pure gold is too soft to use in jewellery that will be worn every day, which is why it is mixed with…

Importing jewellery into the UK involves more than just looking at the topline price. Here’s what to think about when deciding whether it’s right for you.