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CA Congress embraces sustainability initiatives in Brazil and Africa, guides trade on tariffs

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The May 19-22 ICA Congress highlighted initiatives towards greater sustainability in Brazilian and African gemstone mining, and gave guidance to the global gemstone trade on how to face up to the challenge of tariffs.

The Congress of the International Colored Gemstone Association (ICA) in Brasilia heard calls from speakers to develop responsible sourcing of coloured gemstones in Brazil by improving permissions for small-scale artisanal miners, who extract most of the South American country’s vast array of coloured gemstones.

Geologist Brian Cook, owner at Nature’s Geometry, appealed at the ICA Congress for more support for Brazilian artisanal mining communities in order to strengthen the industry. Cook urged more state-backed initiatives as well as investments to support responsible sourcing and permissions in artisanal mining areas, while ensuring health and safety.Regenerative agriculture, new income resources and entrepreneurial opportunities can be introduced to move towards greater sustainability in artisanal mining, he added.

The “Gems Keep Giving” initiative presented information about a life-changing project in Kenya and a new project that has started in Brazil to combat silicosis, which is a  form of occupational lung disease caused by inhalation of crystalline silica dust.

A video presentation about a “Gems Keep Giving” water purification project in Kamtonga, Kenya, supporting the small-scale artisanal mining community there, received a standing ovation from the audience.

The ICA’s leadership advised their members around the world, faced with the challenge of tariffs, to contact their local government representatives to press for preferential trade deals, and to seek out contacts with US trade representatives.

ICA and the US Jewelers Vigilance Committee (JVC) are planning webinars in the coming months to inform members about tariffs and how to facilitate trade and shipping in coloured gemstones.

A possible rise in US tariffs after expiration of the present 90-day pause, could trigger investment in cutting and polishing in gemstone origin countries, Sara Yood, President, CEO and General Counsel at the JVC, told the ICA Congress.

If tariffs, presently held at 10 percent, revert to higher rates in key gemstone manufacturing countries such as India and Thailand, more investments in crafting operations in gemstone origin countries may follow, Yood said during a question-and-answer session. “Businesses may look to keep more cutting in mining countries, especially if those mining countries have a preferential tariff rate,” she said.

The ICA leadership summed up the impact of the Congress, underlining the strength of engagement by attendees at the event.

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Chow Tai Fook Boosts Profitability in FY2025 Despite Revenue Decline Amid Gold Price Pressures

Operating profit climbs nearly 10% on stronger margins and premium brand strategy, even as revenue falls 18%; fixed-price gold and digital retail channels drive resilience.

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Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group Ltd. delivered a resilient performance in FY2025, with operating profit rising 9.8% year-on-year to HK$14.75 billion, even as revenue declined 17.5% to HK$89.66 billion due to high gold prices and a sluggish macroeconomic environment.

The company’s ongoing brand transformation helped offset the top-line pressure, with the launch of five new premium-format stores in Mainland China and Hong Kong contributing to a 400 basis point expansion in operating margin, which reached 16.4%. Gross profit margin also improved to 29.5%, driven by a stronger product mix and growing demand for fixed-price gold jewellery.

While net profit attributable to shareholders fell 9% to HK$5.92 billion—largely due to revaluation losses on gold loan contracts—the group maintained a generous dividend payout ratio of 87.8%, declaring a full-year dividend of HK$0.52 per share.

Chairman Dr. Henry Cheng commented, “We are making significant progress in our brand transformation journey. Despite external headwinds, we continue to adapt to shifting consumer preferences and see exciting opportunities for growth across China and beyond. Innovation, craftsmanship, and cultural pride remain central to our identity.”

A standout in FY2025 was the remarkable growth in fixed-price gold jewellery, with sales soaring 105.5% year-on-year. These products now account for 19.2% of Mainland China’s gold jewellery revenue. Signature collections such as CTF Rouge and the Palace Museum collaboration each recorded over HK$4 billion in sales.

The group also accelerated its digital retail strategy. Livestreaming and e-commerce accounted for 5.8% of retail sales value in Mainland China, while online sales in Hong Kong and Macau surged 91%, driven by a revamped website and successful IP-based product collaborations.

Looking ahead to FY2026, Chow Tai Fook expects to benefit from continued brand evolution, improving market sentiment, and disciplined cost management, positioning the company for sustainable, quality-led growth.

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Gold prices jump near record high as Israel-Iran conflict escalates

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Gold prices rose sharply on Friday, June 13, 2025, coming close to their all-time high. This came after Israel launched a major military attack on Iran, hitting important nuclear and military sites. In response, Iran sent over 100 drones toward Israel, causing fears of a wider conflict in the Middle East. Gold prices remain firm as markets focus on Israel’s attacks on Iran.

XAU/USD continues to climb, with prices holding firm above $3,400 while US equities and risk assets plunge. Michigan consumer sentiment and expectations beat estimates, with inflation expectations falling. But ‘risk-off’ tone remains.

Because of these rising tensions, many investors rushed to buy gold, which is often seen as a safe place to put money during uncertain times. This demand pushed spot gold prices up to $3,417.10 per ounce, and gold futures for August delivery to $3,436.90—both near their previous record highs of around $3,500 reached in April 2025.

At the same time, new data showed that inflation in the U.S. is slowing down. This has increased hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve might lower interest rates soon, which also supports gold prices.

In short, the mix of Middle East conflict and signs of lower U.S. inflation is making gold more attractive to investors looking for stability during uncertain times.

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Swarovski Unveils Octagon Collection Featuring Exclusive Diamond Cut

New fine jewelry line showcases patented octagon-shaped lab-grown diamonds, merging precision craftsmanship with modern elegance.

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Swarovski has introduced its latest fine jewelry line, the Octagon Collection, centered around a proprietary, patented diamond cut inspired by the brand’s iconic logo. Conceived by Swarovski’s Global Creative Director Giovanna Engelbert, the octagon-shaped cut is a fresh symbol of the brand’s evolving design legacy.

At the heart of the collection is the Swarovski Octagon Cut, boasting 57 precisely engineered facets—32 on the pavilion, 24 on the crown, and one on the table. This unique structure is designed to offer enhanced brilliance and light performance, outshining traditional emerald and baguette cuts.

The Octagon Collection features ten elegant pieces, including bezel-set laboratory-grown diamonds paired with precious metals. Highlights of the collection include a pendant in white or yellow gold, mini hoop earrings in yellow gold, white gold stud earrings, a yellow gold bracelet, and a variety of ring styles—such as solitaire rings in vertical and horizontal settings and a band ring, all offered in both white and yellow gold.

Swarovski described the new line as “a new chapter in Swarovski savoir-faire,” noting that the Octagon cut and its debut collection “balance the timeless elegance of laboratory-grown diamonds with distinctive designs, created to illuminate life’s most meaningful moments—from personal milestones to lasting commitments.”

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