Chris Blakeslee has experience at Athleta and Alo Yoga. Kendra Scott will remain on board as executive chair and chief visionary officer.
De Beers Says Diamond Demand Is ‘Stable’
The diamond company sold $575 million in rough in its latest round of sightholder and auction sales, a 10 percent year-over-year increase.

Gaborone, Botswana—De Beers described diamond demand as “stable” so far this year as it posted healthy gains in its latest round of auction and sightholder sales.
In its third sales cycle of 2019, the company sold $575 million in rough diamonds, up 10 percent from $524 million in the same period last year, and a 16 percent increase from the second-cycle sales total of $496 million.
The $575 million, which is provisional and likely will be revised when De Beers releases fourth-cycle sales figures next month, is the company’s highest total since the fifth sales cycle of last year.
Here’s a chart showing De Beers’ rough diamond sales so far in 2019.
In other company news, De Beers Canada announced last month that a haul truck has brought the last load of ore up from Victor Mine, the open-pit mine in northern Ontario that opened in 2008.
Victor will continue to process stockpiled ore until early May.
De Beers announced plans to close Victor in November 2017 and its shutdown will leave the company with just one diamond mine in Canada.
Given the closures of Victor and Snap Lake in Canada as well as Voorspoed in South Africa, the company has consolidated its Canadian and South African operations into one business, De Beers Group Managed Operations.
The unit will be run out of Johannesburg with additional support services in Canada and headed by Nompumelelo (Mpumi) Zikalala, the former deputy chief executive officer of De Beers Consolidated Mining (DBCM).
Zikalala has more than 18 years’ experience in the mining industry, starting her career as an ore processing engineer at the Cullinan Diamond Mine in 2001.
As deputy CEO at DBCM, she was in charge of the company’s strategy in South Africa, including the consolidation and simplification of its business there.
She is replacing DBCM CEO Phillip Barton and De Beers Canada CEO Kim Truter,
The Latest

The credit card companies’ surveys examined where consumers shopped, what they bought, and what they valued this holiday season.

Kimberly Miller has been promoted to the role.

How Jewelers of America’s 20 Under 40 are leading to ensure a brighter future for the jewelry industry.

The “Serenity” charm set with 13 opals is a modern amulet offering protection, guidance, and intention, the brand said.


“Bridgerton” actresses Hannah Dodd and Claudia Jessie star in the brand’s “Rules to Love By” campaign.

Founded by jeweler and sculptor Ana Khouri, the brand is “expanding the boundaries of what high jewelry can be.”

Roseco’s 704-page catalog showcases new lab-grown diamonds, findings, tools & more—available in print or interactive digital editions.

The jewelry manufacturer and supplier is going with a fiery shade it says symbolizes power and transformation.

The singer-songwriter will make her debut as the French luxury brand’s new ambassador in a campaign for its “Coco Crush” jewelry line.

The nonprofit’s new president and CEO, Annie Doresca, also began her role this month.

As the shopping mall model evolves and online retail grows, Smith shares his predictions for the future of physical stores.

The trade show is slated for Jan. 31-Feb. 2 at The Lighthouse in New York City's Chelsea neighborhood.

January’s birthstone comes in a rainbow of colors, from the traditional red to orange, purple, and green.

Footage of a fight breaking out in the NYC Diamond District was viewed millions of times on Instagram and Facebook.

The supplier has a curated list of must-have tools for jewelers doing in-house custom work this year.

The Signet Jewelers-owned store, which turned 100 last year, calls its new concept stores “The Edit.”

Linda Coutu is rejoining the precious metals provider as its director of sales.

Sparkle with festive diamond jewelry as we celebrate the beginning of 2026.

The master jeweler, Olympian, former senator, and Korean War veteran founded the brand Nighthorse Jewelry.

In its annual report, Pinterest noted an increase in searches for brooches, heirloom jewelry, and ‘80s luxury.

Executive Chairman Richard Baker will take over the role as rumors swirl that a bankruptcy filing is imminent for the troubled retailer.

Mohr had just retired in June after more than two decades as Couture’s retailer liaison.

Shekhar Shah of Real Gems Inc. will serve as president of the Indian Diamond & Colorstone Association in 2026.

This year’s good luck charm features the mythical horse Pegasus, and is our first Piece of the Week of the new year.

Articles about crime, engagement rings, and a necklace worn in the World Series generated the most interest among readers.

As part of the leadership transition, Sherry Smith will take on the role of vice president of coaching strategy and development.





















