De Beers Unveils New Marine Mining Vessel in Namibia
The custom-built vessel will increase Debmarine Namibia’s annual production by 45 percent.

The ship, named the “Benguela Gem,” will begin operations this week, ahead of schedule, the company said.
It’s the latest addition to Debmarine Namibia’s fleet, which recovers diamonds from deep within the ocean.
The custom-built vessel cost more than $420 million and will increase Debmarine Namibia’s annual production by 45 percent, adding 500,000 additional carats of high-value diamonds. It will also create 160 jobs for Namibians, De Beers said.
Debmarine Namibia is a subsidiary of Namdeb Holdings and is a 50/50 joint venture between De Beers Group and the Government of the Republic of Namibia.
In 2021, Debmarine Namibia recovered around 1.1 million carats of rough diamonds while Namdeb Holdings’ total production totaled about 1.5 million carats.
Namibian diamonds garner some of the world’s highest average prices per carat, said De Beers.
Diamond recovery by Debmarine Namibia is the single biggest contributor to the country’s economy, said De Beers, adding that the partnership contributes more than 10 billion Namibian dollars (about $626 million) in revenue to Namibia annually.
“In a world where there is global competition for capital, and where capital has become increasingly mobile, it is most pleasing to see that we are able to witness the fruits of this fantastic investment,” said Tom Alweendo, Namibia’s minister of mines and energy, in a press release about the new vessel.
“The investment in this vessel is not just an investment in a diamond recovery vessel. It is an investment in the future of Namibia.”
The vessel, which took two years to build, was an international effort.
Designed in Norway and Poland, it was built in Romania and fitted with equipment by De Beers Marine South Africa.
De Beers said the ship’s state-of-the-art dynamic positioning system optimizes its performance in changing weather conditions to minimize energy use. It also generates fresh water through its heat recovery systems and a reverse osmosis plant.
“The Benguela Gem is the first of its kind and represents an outstanding feat of engineering design, technology innovation and sustainability performance,” said De Beers Group CEO Bruce Cleaver.
“Despite significant challenges presented by COVID-19, the project was delivered ahead of time and budget, a testament to the world-leading skill and expertise of all involved. The investment in this vessel will support a long-term, sustainable future for Namibia’s diamond sector, which is home to some [of] the most sought-after diamonds in the world.”
The vessel’s crew will also have access to entertainment systems, a gym, a hospital, and other relaxation facilities, which have been built into the vessel’s design.
The Latest

Take a bite out of the 14-karat yellow gold “Fruits of Love Pear” earrings featuring peridots, diamond stems, and tsavorite leaves.

The one-day virtual event will feature speakers from De Beers, GIA, and Gemworld International.

The California-based creative talks jewelry photography in the modern era and tackles FAQs about working with a pro for the first time.

The countdown is on for the JCK Las Vegas Show and JA is pulling out all the stops.

Al Capone’s pocket watch also found a buyer, though it went for less than half of what it did at auction four years ago.


The foundation has also expanded its “Stronger Together” initiative with Jewelers for Children.

Assimon is the auction house’s new chief commercial officer.

When investing in your jewelry business, it's important not to overlook the most crucial element of success: the sales associates.

The De Beers Group CEO discusses the company’s new “beacon” program, the likelihood diamonds will be exempt from tariffs, and “Origin.”

The Danish jewelry giant hosted its grand opening last weekend, complete with a Pandora pink roulette wheel.

Industry veteran Anoop Mehta is the new chairman and independent director of the IGI board.

The winners of the inaugural “Kering Generation Award x Jewelry” are student Lee Min Seo and China-based startup Ianyan.

It's one of the “Gresham grasshopper” rings English financier Sir Thomas Gresham was known to gift to acquaintances or business associates.

The brand also debuted its new “Zorae” collection featuring a talisman of protection and harmony inspired by a sheaf of wheat.

As Loudr’s new account manager, Johansen will partner with clients to craft and execute marketing strategies.

Designers were recognized in 12 categories, from platinum to pearls, before the evening ended with a new, retail-focused award.

The rare turquoise and diamond jewel was the top lot at Bonhams’ June jewelry sale.

This year’s honorees include a Midwest retailer and two multi-store independents, one in New York and the other in New England.

The deadline to submit is June 16.

The diamond wholesaler is working with the insurance provider to seamlessly offer personal jewelry insurance to RDI retailers’ clients.

As an homage to iconic crochet blankets, the necklace features the nostalgic motif through a kaleidoscope of cabochon-cut stones.

Discover the dozen up-and-coming brands exhibiting in the Design Atelier for the first time.

The entrepreneur and “Shark Tank” star will share his top tips for success.

Two existing executives have been given new roles.

Meredith Tiderington, an electrical engineering student, was selected for the award.

It will quit assigning the stones specific color and clarity grades in favor of applying “new descriptive terminology.”

From design trends to sustainability, here’s a roundup of can’t-miss education sessions at JCK Las Vegas.