DiamondBuzz
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.
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.
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.
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.
-
International News15 hours agoUS Holiday Shopping Expected To Top $1 Trillion For The First Time: NRF
-
National News9 hours agoBelgian Consul General H. E. Mr. Pierre Stverlynck Graces BDB Annual Day Â
-
National News10 hours agoLimelight Lab Grown Diamonds Crosses 100 Stores Milestone This Dussehra: Targets 200 In 2027
-
New Premises10 hours agoJoyalukkas Opens Its 2nd Bengaluru Showroom in Jayanagar

