DiamondBuzz
De Beers India MD Calls for Better Tech to Distinguish Synthetic and Natural Diamonds
De Beers India managing director Amit Pratihari expressed concerns over the lack of transparency in synthetic diamond sales, emphasizing the importance of clear disclosure to consumers. He highlighted the need for proper certification and reliable grading institutions to distinguish natural diamonds from lab-grown ones, adding that the company’s in-house lab, which used to serve only De Beers brands, is now available to other retailers as well. The natural diamond industry, he noted, is collaborating with the Gems and Jewellery Exports Promotion Council and the government to standardize quality certifications and grading parameters.
While Pratihari does not view the synthetic diamond market as direct competition, he acknowledges the growing popularity of lab-grown diamonds and the need for regulation to ensure consumers are well-informed. India, following the Federation Trade Commission (FTC) guidelines, now mandates that synthetic diamonds be clearly labeled as such, with further developments expected in grading standards.
In terms of retail growth, De Beers is optimistic about India’s diamond market, projecting it will grow from $8.5 billion in 2024 to $17 billion by 2030. To tap into this potential, the company plans to significantly increase its retail presence, including opening 100 exclusive outlets for its Forevermark brand, with the goal of reaching $100 million in sales by 2030.
DiamondBuzz
SA Diplomatic Delegation Visits BDB
Focus On Strengthening Bilateral Ties In The Diamond Sector
A senior diplomatic delegation from South Africa, led by High Commissioner H.E. Professor Anil Sooklal and Consul General Gideon Labane, visited the Bharat Diamond Bourse (BDB) on 29 April, signalling focus on strengthening bilateral ties in the diamond sector.
The delegation was received by Anoop Mehta, President, BDB; Kirit Bhansali, Chairman, GJEPC; Mehul Shah, Vice President, BDB, and other committee members. Officials toured the BDB campus, reviewing its infrastructure and secure trading ecosystem.
South Africa remains a key source of rough diamonds globally, and discussions centred on reinforcing supply stability, expanding trade partnerships, and building long-term value for industry stakeholders. Both sides explored avenues to deepen institutional collaboration across the diamond pipeline.
Highlighting over 200 years of India-South Africa ties, Mehul Shah called for faster visa processing with longer validity for BDB members and employees to ease business operations and support smoother rough diamond flows. He also proposed showcasing rough diamonds from South African producers at the India Diamond Trading Company within the bourse, enabling wider access, particularly for MSMEs, to direct supply from mines.
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