The Indian jewelry brand recently opened stores in Atlanta and Seattle.
Exploitation and responsibility
It wasn't long ago that Americans were exploited by Europe for our rich natural resources. In the heyday of colonialism, it was standard operating procedure for powerful nations to divvy up the world and its spoils, with little interest in...
It wasn't long ago that Americans were exploited by Europe for our rich natural resources. In the heyday of colonialism, it was standard operating procedure for powerful nations to divvy up the world and its spoils, with little interest in the well-being of the peoples they dominated.
Unfortunately, the lust for gold and exploitation of weaker countries for their resources—whether gold, diamonds or other commodities—by the powerful remains alive and well. It's an abhorrent aspect of modern civilization that we as individuals, not to mention as an industry, should deplore and condemn.
Our industry's movement toward "fair trade" gold and "conflict-free" gemstones should be applauded as a first step. But it remains woefully short of a fully acceptable solution. Recent political developments such as African "benefication" show that those in exploited areas are wising up. They won't be as easily duped as they've been, allowing developed nations to walk in and walk off with their riches.
Rectifying conditions between developing and developed nations is a difficult and case-by-case process. The current turmoil in Libya is an example. That country's rich oil reserves are of globally strategic importance, as witnessed in the chaos last week in equities markets. But even in a world marked by America's Wilsonian propensity toward interventionist policing of the internal affairs of sovereign states when our interests are at stake, international politics and relations mandate a cautious approach to such powers.
Exploitation, however, doesn't always take the form of intervention. Indeed, it much more commonly involves commercial dealings that may be prima facie acceptable to both buyers and sellers. That, of course, does not make such dealings morally appropriate.
While there are certainly circumstances that are of such gravity that they have the ability to affect global well-being, such as arms limitations and flow of free trade, etc., down-low patronizing of commerce that supports human rights violations is simply wrong. The fine jewelry trade needs to retain a focused vigilance on the sourcing of its component metals and gemstones
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CEO Beth Gerstein shared its most popular price points, what’s trending in non-bridal fine jewelry, and its holiday performance.

The 15 pieces were crafted from the “Insofu” emerald, discovered in Zambia in 2010.

Supplier Spotlight Sponsored by GIA

Chris Anderson is joining the insurance provider as the new chief financial officer and treasurer.


Jewelers of America is distributing a brochure for retailers to use when discussing the differences between natural and lab-grown diamonds.

The industry is changing as it grapples with new realities around distribution, supply, and the need for consistent, effective marketing.

Natural diamonds mean more than lab-grown, but when every cut is ideal, they all look the same. Customers want more—Facets of Fire delivers.

Bhansali discusses the potential impact of U.S. tariffs, demand for diamonds by market, and the “cautious confidence” in India right now.

As lab-grown diamond brands pop up across India, academics are researching how to grow demand outside of the jewelry industry.

Govind Dholakia and Tanishq will be recognized for their contributions to the industry at the Diamonds Do Good Awards in Las Vegas.

The New York City-based brand has opened its first U.K. location with a permanent shop-in-shop at Liberty in London.

A metal detectorist discovered the ring that is believed to have belonged to a bishop in the late 12th to early 13th century.

Organizers looked to new partnerships and interactive experiences to enhance the spring show, set for March 16 to 18.

Kenewendo, Botswana’s minister of minerals and energy, will discuss the future of diamonds.

The suspect allegedly stole almost $800,000 worth of diamond jewelry from a store in Orlando and then swallowed it during a traffic stop.

Ahead of the Gem Awards on Friday, Jen Cullen Williams and Duvall O’Steen share pro tips for taking the best photos.

Founded in 2000, Marco Bicego is commemorating its milestone anniversary with a “25 Best” collection and campaigns honoring its heritage.

Those attending the company’s upcoming Zoom workshop will receive early access to “The List,” its new resource for finding buyers.

The organization will present an award to Amy-Elise Signeavsky, law enforcement and diamond recovery manager at GIA.

Chandler started his jewelry career at Michelson Jewelers, joining the Diamond Council of America as president and CEO in 2001.

Scottish American designer Maeve Gillies collaborated with Platinum Guild International on jewelry created by direct metal 3D printing.

Ahead of its trade show in May, TJS awarded free registration and accommodations to five up-and-coming jewelry industry professionals.

The 2025 Gem Awards are set to take place Friday at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City.

The annual star-studded campaign for International Women’s Day encourages collective action against domestic violence.

The statement piece is seen in Yeprem’s new “You Play the Game” campaign, created for International Women’s Day.

Longtime employee Kyle Slosson has been promoted to the role.