DiamondBuzz
Botswana’s diamond problems are holding back its economy
Botswana depends too much on money from diamonds. This creates “bottlenecks” that stop businesses from growing and the country from trying new things, says the IMF (International Monetary Fund).
In a new report called Addressing Growth Bottlenecks in Botswana, the IMF says the country is at an important turning point.
The problems include:
- Hard to get loans (25% of companies say this).
- Issues with land ownership rules.
- Bad governance.
- Poor infrastructure, like unreliable electricity.
- Strict job rules that make hiring hard.
The diamond business is changing fast. Lab-grown diamonds, sanctions on Russia, and less demand from China (especially a normal business cycle drop) are hurting it.
The IMF says Botswana must fix these big problems to grow and not rely only on diamonds.
In 2024, the economy shrank by 3% because diamond production stopped and demand fell. This hurt government savings, raised youth joblessness, and showed too much focus on one industry.Last month, the IMF warned Botswana not to buy more shares in De Beers . It could increase debt and tie the country more to a risky business.
DiamondBuzz
Motorsport Meets High Jewellery: Hannah St John Turns Heads with ‘La Velocita’ Diamond Necklace at F1 Event
A 25-carat, 1,800-diamond Masterpiece Inspired by Formula 1 circuits Takes Centre Stage at the Glamour on the Grid ahead of the Australian Grand Prix
At the glamorous lead-up to the Australian Grand Prix, Hannah St John, partner of Liam Lawson, made a striking statement at the Glamour on the Grid event with a one-of-a-kind diamond necklace that seamlessly blended motorsport and haute jewellery.
Titled “La Velocit” (The Speed), the necklace was crafted by Australian atelier Martin Rogers Jewellery. The extraordinary piece features approximately 1,800 diamonds totalling 25 carats, intricately arranged to trace the outlines of iconic Formula 1 circuits from the global racing calendar.



A true testament to craftsmanship, the necklace required an estimated 250–300 hours of meticulous handwork, including weeks dedicated solely to precision diamond setting. Valued at around AUD $500,000 (approximately $350,000 USD), the piece stands as a bold fusion of speed, design, and luxury artistry.
Blurring the lines between engineering inspiration and fine jewellery, “La Velocità” captured attention across the paddock, proving that Formula 1’s influence extends far beyond the track.
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