Executive Chairman Richard Baker will take over the role as rumors swirl that a bankruptcy filing is imminent for the troubled retailer.
Zambian Tax Authority Raids Gemfields Emerald Mine
The governmental body had two search warrants that allowed it to seize documents and files allegedly connected to tax evasion.

London—Gemfields reported that the Zambia Revenue Authority has launched an investigation into alleged tax evasion at its Kagem emerald mine.
The colored stone miner said the governmental body served two search warrants during an unannounced visit to Kagem Mining Limited on Thursday.
The authority issued the warrants on Kagem Mining Limited and Limpopo Polygraphs, a South African company that conducts periodic polygraph testing at the site and currently has a representative there.
Revenue authorities have seized a range of documents and files, including those allegedly “used by Kagem Mine Ltd/Limpopo Polygraphs CC to evade the payment of Value Added Tax, income tax, with-holding tax and other taxes.”
Gemfields said it will provide updates as more information becomes available.
The company holds a 75 percent stake in the Kagem emerald mine.
This news is the latest in a number of problems for the colored gemstone miner this year.
In late June, a large mob overran Gemfields’ emerald exploration site in Ethiopia. A month later, members of that same mob looted the site and stole emeralds from the safe in the sort house.
Earlier this year, a group of Mozambicans hit the colored stone company with a lawsuit regarding alleged human rights abuses at the Montepuez ruby mine, a case that is still making its way through the London court system.
The Latest

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

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

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

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.

The new Bulova x Stetson designs highlight two animals often associated with the American West—the bison and the Texas Longhorn.

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

Its residency at Yamron Jewelers will run through May 2026.

From influential executives to innovative designers, we pay tribute to the people we said goodbye to this year.

The retailer is expanding into areas with large Indian and South Asian populations.

The Italian brand has opened its first flagship amid the peaks of the Dolomites in Madonna di Campiglio, Italy.

The new curation at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County showcases rare gem and mineral specimens in their uncut, natural state.

The couple pleaded guilty to concealing at least $127 million in cash transactions at its precious metals businesses.

Consumers shared concerns about prices, inflation, tariffs, trade, and politics in the survey’s write-in response section.

In February 2026, the auction house will move its headquarters to the former Steinway Hall, a neoclassical landmark on Billionaires’ Row.

The new show will take place Jan. 23-25, 2026.

The former BHP Billiton leader and Gemfields chairman is remembered for his influential leadership throughout his 50-year mining career.

The LVMH-owned brand has partnered with the costume design union to revamp its award for 2026.

The luxury titan inked a deal to acquire an initial minority stake in the jewelry manufacturer with a pathway to full ownership by 2032.

The company’s curation of unsigned vintage and estate jewelry debuted at the Bloomingdale’s in Costa Mesa, California.

In the recent multi-shipment seizure, CBP also found counterfeit Audemars Piguet, Moncler, and Chrome Hearts items.

Helzberg’s Chief Retail Officer Mitch Maggart shared details about its tests of a new store concept rooted in an elevated luxury experience.

Jewelers of America execs and National Jeweler editors discuss tariffs, the sky-high gold price, and the engagement that broke the internet.

The luxury goods company said founder Ippolita Rostagno will remain at the brand’s helm.

Laura Burdese, who joined the Italian luxury brand in 2022, will take on the role in July.

The National Jeweler editors revisit the most noteworthy industry happenings and design trends from 2025.




















