Sally Morrison and Mark Klein discuss De Beers’ first beacon in 16 years and the mistake the industry made with lab-grown diamonds.
Alrosa’s H1 Revenue Up on Product Mix, Prices
The volume of carats sold slid, though, as the diamond miner remains without Mir.

Moscow—Alrosa sold fewer diamonds but at higher prices in the first six months of the year, ending the period with year-over-year increases in sales and net profit.
The Moscow-based diamond miner reported late last week that second quarter revenue totaled 72.2 billion rubles ($1.06 billion), up 2 percent year-over-year but a 25 percent drop from the first quarter.
Second quarter net profit totaled 25.4 million rubles, up 1 percent from the second quarter 2017 but down 32 percent from 32.9 billion rubles in the first quarter.
First-half revenue totaled 168.2 billion rubles, up 8 percent from 155.6 billion rubles in the prior-year period.
Net profit climbed 19 percent, from 48.9 billion rubles to 58.3 billion rubles on the back of growing EBITDA bolstered by higher diamond prices, strict cost controls and a weaker ruble, the company said.
The year-over-year increases in sales and net profit came despite the fact that the volume of carats sold by Alrosa—particularly carats of gem-quality diamonds—slid in both the second quarter and first half of the year, as the mining company is still without Mir, the underground mine that has been closed since August 2017 after eight workers were killed in a flood there.
Alrosa sold 13.3 million carats of diamonds in the first quarter, but that number dropped to 9 million in the second quarter. Year-to-date, diamond sales by volume have totaled 22.4 million carats, down 8 percent from the same period last year.
Gem-quality diamond sales totaled 10.1 million carats in the first quarter, declining by nearly half to 6.3 million carats in the second quarter. Year-to-date, they are down 14 percent.
Commenting on the company’s first-half results, CEO Sergey Ivanov said Alrosa “delivered strong financial results, reaffirming its industry leadership both in profitability and market share.”
He also mentioned the diamond miner is focused on core assets, selling non-core gas assets at auction in early 2018 for 30.3 billion rubles (more than $400 million).
It used the money to pay down debt and, in July, global credit rating agency S&P upgraded Alrosa’s credit rating to investment-grade level.
Alrosa said its production guidance for the year remains unchanged at 39 to 40 million carats.
The Latest

McKenzie spent 45 years with Spark Creations and is remembered for being kind, dedicated, and hardworking.

Rolex focused exclusively on the Oyster Perpetual this year, as the model is celebrating its 100th anniversary.

Gain access to the most exclusive and coveted antique pieces from trusted dealers during Las Vegas Jewelry Week.

The luxury giant discussed the Middle East conflict and its transformation plans, hinting at a stronger jewelry presence in North America.


“Diamond Divas,” a social media reality series by Shahla Karimi Jewelry, is nominated in the “Best Social: Fashion & Beauty” category.

Plus, how Saks Global’s bankruptcy affected the luxury giant’s first quarter.

Gain access to the most exclusive and coveted antique pieces from trusted dealers during Las Vegas Jewelry Week.

Presented by Mason-Kay Jade, the summit, in its second year, will again be held during the Monterey Bay Jade Festival.

The group has announced its lineup of speakers and a new “Rising Stars” pavilion.

The “Carbon Form” collection explores the contrast between high and low materials, using rubber cord alongside 18-karat gold and gemstones.

The program provides essential funding to organizations for projects that enhance the jewelry industry.

The jewelry trade show is launching its first open-to-the-public event in Coconut Grove this November.

JSA is seeking information about the gunpoint robbery of a Kay Jewelers location in Oregon’s Washington Square Mall.

The top-performing watch models may be surprising, with Rolex and several popular pandemic-era picks notably absent from the top 20.

The “Scroll” toggle pendant, our Piece of the Week, opens to reveal a hidden message, mantra, or love letter written on washi paper.

Jewelers who misinterpret the state of the jewelry market risk employing the wrong retail strategy, cautions columnist Sherry Smith.

In her newly expanded role, she will continue to oversee the jewelry category, as well as watches, home, and accessories.

“The Godfather II” watch plays two melodies from the mob film’s score, “The Godfather’s Waltz” and “The Godfather Love Theme.”

Organizers have also introduced the new JCK Talks Signature Series, as well as an offering of watch-focused workshops and lectures.

The Alan Hodgkinson Medal recognizes gemologists who are consistently generous with their time and expertise.

The Swiss watchmaker is changing up its executive leadership team as part of a restructuring.

The “What’s Your Signature?” campaign invites women to think about how they see themselves.

The big diamond’s sale added to the company’s revenue though the market remains “challenging” overall, particularly for smaller goods.

Rob Bates of The Jewelry Wire will also moderate a panel on the state of the jewelry industry during the virtual event.

The Jewelry Symposium will honor two industry veterans with lifetime achievement awards at its upcoming May event.

With their durability, brilliance, and beauty, diamonds are the perfect stone for everyday birthstone jewelry.





















