Pete’s boundless curiosity extended beyond diamond cut and he was always eager to share his knowledge with others, no matter the topic.
Report raises questions about Antwerp Diamond Bank
KBC never made a good faith effort to sell Antwerp Diamond Bank because certain key players knew what authorities would find if they looked under the hood, a new article alleges.
New York--KBC Group NV never made a good faith effort to sell Antwerp Diamond Bank (ADB) because certain key players knew what banking authorities would find if they looked under the hood, Chaim Even-Zohar alleges in his latest column.
The longtime diamond industry journalist writes in his Sept. 11 Diamond Intelligence Briefing that “certain key players” at KBC did everything they could to “frustrate,” delay and ultimately kill the sale of the bank in order to give themselves time to cover up alleged laundering activities in Eastern Europe, distance themselves from statues of limitations, and keep ADB “out of sight” of U.S. banking regulatory authorities.
Even-Zohar cites a number of sources and pieces of evidence in his column, key among them being the seven-year-long legal battle between New York-based diamond company Lazare Kaplan and KBC/ADB.
In lawsuits filed in both Belgium and New York, Lazare Kaplan accuses KBC and ADB of fraud and corruption for taking money that belonged to Lazare Kaplan and depositing it into the accounts of a diamantaire named Erez Daleyot in order to make up for a series of “improper” loans the banks made to Daleyot.
Access Even-Zohar’s entire article on DiamondIntelligence.com. (Fee involved.)
The Latest

Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Buccellati, and Vhernier had another successful holiday season, Richemont reported this week.

Our Piece of the Week is Lagos’ “Bee” brooch that was seen on the red carpet for the first time on Sunday.

Criminals are using cell jammers to disable alarms, but new technology like JamAlert™ can stop them.

Trevor Jonathan Wright led a crew in a string of armed robberies targeting South Asian-owned jewelry stores on the East Coast.


The program recognizes rising professionals in the jewelry industry.

A new lifestyle section and a watch showcase have been added to this year’s event.

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

Avocados From Mexico is celebrating those who love to double-dip in game day guacamole with a 14-karat yellow gold tortilla chip necklace.

The brand is trading its colorful fabric cords for Italian leather in its “Lasso” baby locket bracelets.

National Jeweler and Jewelers of America’s popular webinar series is evolving in 2026.

The department store chain owes millions to creditors like David Yurman, Roberto Coin, Kering, and LVMH.

The award-winning actor’s visionary approach and creativity echo the spirit of Boucheron, the brand said.

Edge Retail Academy honored Burnell’s Fine Jewelry in Wichita, Kansas, with its annual award for business excellence.

In a market defined by more selective consumers, Sherry Smith shares why execution will be independent jewelers’ key to growth this year.

The family-owned jeweler’s new space is in a former wholesale produce market.

Ivel Sanchez Rivera, 52, has been arrested and charged in connection with the armed robbery of Tio Jewelers in Cape Coral, Florida.

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

A monthly podcast series for jewelry professionals

Associate Editor Natalie Francisco highlights her favorite jewelry moments from the Golden Globes, and they are (mostly) white hot.

Yantzer is remembered for the profound influence he had on diamond cut grading as well as his contagious smile and quick wit.

The store closures are part of the retailer’s “Bold New Chapter” turnaround plan.

Through EventGuard, the company will offer event liability and cancellation insurance, including wedding coverage.

Chris Blakeslee has experience at Athleta and Alo Yoga. Kendra Scott will remain on board as executive chair and chief visionary officer.

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.

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






















