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African group identifies countries blocking new conflict-diamond definition

Six KP member nations block efforts to modernise the conflict-diamond definition, deepening global tensions over long-overdue reforms to the Kimberley Process.

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The ongoing debate over how to redefine conflict diamonds intensified last week when the African Diamond Producers Association (ADPA) publicly identified the six Kimberley Process (KP) members that vetoed a proposed expansion of the current definition. The move followed a crucial vote at the KP plenary, where unanimous agreement is required for any change to be adopted.

According to the ADPA, the countries that opposed the revised wording were Australia, Canada, the European Union, Switzerland, Ukraine and the United Kingdom. This opposition came despite broad support from the Kimberley Process Ad Hoc Committee on Review and Reform (AHCRR), including major diamond-producing nations that have long advocated for a more contemporary and inclusive description of conflict diamonds.

The existing definition, enshrined in United Nations General Assembly Resolution 55/56, limits conflict diamonds to rough diamonds used by rebel movements or their allies to finance conflicts aimed at undermining legitimate governments. While effective two decades ago, this framing no longer captures the diverse and evolving risks associated with modern conflict financing.

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DiamondBuzz

Richemont and Signet Jewelers Could Join Global Diamond Consortium In Bid For De Beers

Richemont, Signet Would Connect The Consortium To Key Global Growth Vectors Spanning Luxury High Jewelry and Mass-Market Retail.

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The Global Diamond Consortium (GDC)

Richemont and Signet Jewelers are reported to be in talks about joining the Global Diamond Consortium (GDC), the preferred bidder for De Beers according to a Bloomberg News report.

​GDC was selected in July 2026 as one of Anglo American’s preferred bidders for De Beers as part of Anglo American’s ongoing corporate restructuring. 

​The potential inclusion of Richemont—owner of luxury Maisons including Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels—and Signet Jewelers—the world’s largest retailer of diamond jewelry, operating brands such as Kay Jewelers, Zales, and Jared—would connect the consortium to key global growth vectors spanning luxury high jewelry and mass-market retail. 

​Strengthening the Natural Diamond Ecosystem: Participation by major luxury brands and global retail leaders reinforces commitment across the entire value chain—from responsible mining and manufacturing to consumer engagement. 

​Balanced Governance Structure: Discussions center on potential minority equity positions that would support long-term category growth while maintaining appropriate separation between ownership and commercial strategy.

​Broad Stakeholder Participation: The consortium continues to advance talks with host governments, including discussions with the Government of Botswana regarding a potential increase in its equity share in De Beers from 15% to approximately 25%, alongside participation from private investors and southern African host nations. 

​​Discussions between GDC, Richemont, Signet, and participating government stakeholders remain ongoing. Terms of any potential participation, including the size of equity interests, have not been finalized and remain subject to regulatory approvals and definitive documentation. 

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JewelBuzz is Asia’s First Digital Jewellery Media & India’s No.1 B2B Jewellery Magazine, published by AM Media House. Since 2016, we’ve been the trusted source for jewellery news, market trends, trade insights, exhibitions, podcasts, and brand stories, connecting jewellers, retailers, and industry professionals worldwide.

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