The De Beers Group CEO also discussed tariffs, Desert Diamonds, and the pending sale of De Beers in an interview with Michelle Graff.
This Is the Watch of Choice of the World’s Top Footballer
Sports icon Lionel Messi sported a special timepiece to pick up his record fifth European Golden Shoe award last week.

Barcelona, Spain —To pick up his record fifth European Golden Shoe award last week, FC Barcelona’s Lionel Messi wore a very special timepiece.
Considered one of the greatest soccer players of all time, the Argentinian player sported Jacob & Co.’s Epic SF24 Tourbillon Timepiece.
Equipped with a total of 528 components, the Epic S24 features a unique, patented “split-flap” second time zone display and flying tourbillon. Set in 18-karat rose gold and featuring a see-through back, the strap is rendered in alligator. The style is limited to 101 editions.
Messi isn’t professionally partnered with Jacob & Co.; the wristwatch is part of his personal collection.
The European Gold Shoe award is given annually to the top-scoring player in the European soccer leagues. Messi led the 2017-2018 season with 34 goals.
He previously picked up the statue in the 2009-10, 2011-12, 2012-13 and 2016-17 seasons. He’s already leading the current season with 14 goals so far, the highest number in the European leagues.
The 31-year-old player also holds the honor of being Barcelona’s top scorer of all time, with 572 goals.
Messi’s fifth European Gold Shoe win breaks his tie with Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo, who has four of the statues.
The price of the footballer’s Jacob & Co. timepiece is available upon request via JacobandCo.com.
The Latest

The industry veteran is bringing his 56-year run in the fine jewelry sector to an end.

The panel discussion will feature LGBTQ+ leaders across the jewelry, luxury, and creative industries.

As gold prices rise, today’s retailers are looking for alternatives at prices that will appeal to wider audiences.

Inspired by a locket that got run over, the “Smash” capsule collection reimagines the shape of Lichtenberg’s signature style.


The company has promoted Katherine Whitacre to the role.

The jewelry manufacturer has added Taylor Swift-esque diamond shapes, and more silver, gold vermeil, and gold-plated jewelry.

With the trade and customer trust in mind, GIA® developed NextGem™ – on-demand training designed specifically for retail.

Morrison has been marketing diamonds on and off since the early 2000s and said she is leaving to “pursue new projects.”

Those born in June can celebrate with pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone jewelry.

The platform allows retailers to guide clients through a customizable engagement ring buying experience in a branded interface.

Jim Springer, owner of Dunkelberger’s Fine Jewelry, is heading into retirement.

When conducting its May consumer confidence survey, The Conference Board asked extra questions about consumers’ budgeting strategies.

The “Tunnel” charm, our Piece of the Week, celebrates Pride Month with its design inspired by hope and the light at the end of the tunnel.

The jewelry industry is reassessing its positioning as Gen Z reshapes the retail landscape and lab grown continues to gain market share.

Up for auction at Sotheby’s, the collection of Tempelsman’s personal effects includes a Cartier Tank watch Jackie O. gifted him.

The Miami-based fine jewelry brand will host its first summer residency in the Colorado mountain town from June 5 to Aug. 23.

The organization also announced its international board of directors for the 2026-2027 term.

Saks Global confirmed the closure this week, spelling the end for a store that’s been part of downtown Dallas for more than 100 years.

Smith discusses how managers should handle a top performer's exit, warning that a poor response could have a lasting impact.

The Gemological Institute of America is now a 30 percent stakeholder in Tracr, the De Beers-backed blockchain for diamonds.

The actress and entrepreneur stars in the jeweler’s new campaign that celebrates life’s quiet moments.

The price of gold has risen, affecting the number of pieces designers make, the materials they use, and how they position themselves.

The jewelry retailer is zeroing in on Zales, Jared, Kay Jewelers, and Blue Nile as it looks to create unique brand identities for each.

Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, a development economist, will head the fund created to help Botswana diversify its economy.

A private collection of five Paraíba tourmalines also will be up for sale at Sotheby’s High Jewelry auction in New York, scheduled for June 16.

From Gen Z’s view of luxury to “doom spending,” these are the six consumer trends to note this year.
























