DiamondBuzz
Botswana to mandate that LGDs be weighed in grams rather than carats
Move aimed at protecting the value and reputation of its natural diamond industry
Botswana plans to mandate that lab-grown diamonds be weighed in grams rather than carats, a move aimed at protecting the value and reputation of its natural diamond industry, vital to the nation’s economy. Minerals and Energy Minister Bogolo Kenewendo confirmed that legislation will be introduced in the next parliamentary session. She emphasized that carat weight will be reserved exclusively for natural diamonds, while synthetics will be designated in grams, aligning Botswana with regulatory practices in Europe and Belgium.
The country’s President, Duma Boko, has been outspoken against LGD stressing they cannot be equated with natural gems. While the EU has adopted similar restrictions, the US continues to allow both natural and LGDs to be measured in carats.
The policy shift also reflects a broader international divide. While Europe has already legislated against using carat weights for synthetics, the United States continues to permit both natural and lab-grown diamonds to be measured in carats, a practice that critics argue contributes to confusion in consumer markets.
Industry observers note that Botswana’s decision is both strategic and symbolic. By reinforcing the uniqueness of natural diamonds through regulatory language, Botswana not only protects its mining revenues but also asserts leadership in shaping the narrative around authenticity and rarity in the global diamond trade.
Analysts suggest that if Botswana’s legislation proves successful, it may encourage other major diamond-producing nations to adopt similar policies, further sharpening the distinction between natural and lab-grown diamonds in international markets.
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.
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