The Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) has appointed Neil Ventura, a seasoned diamond industry executive and former De Beers leader, as special adviser for its Precious Stones Ecosystem, the organization announced Sunday via X (formerly Twitter)

Ventura brings over three decades of global experience in the diamond and precious stones sector, including key leadership roles at De Beers and Anglo American. In his new position, he will provide strategic direction for the DMCC’s growing ecosystem, with a particular focus on the Dubai Diamond Exchange (DDE), which now hosts more than 1,300 member companies.

His responsibilities will span both natural and lab-grown diamonds, covering market development, ethical sourcing, compliance, and platform visibility. He will also help shape initiatives aimed at boosting international trade and attracting new participants to Dubai’s diamond hub.

Ventura is widely recognized for driving innovation across the diamond value chain. At De Beers, he spearheaded the development of De Beers Auction Sales, co-founded the Tracr blockchain platform, launched Lightbox Jewelry — the group’s lab-grown diamond brand — and created GemFair, a social initiative designed to empower artisanal miners.

Alongside his new advisory role at DMCC, Ventura continues to serve as an expert adviser to Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and is actively involved with Antler, a global early-stage venture capital firm.

Dubai’s jewellery industry is undergoing a strategic transformation to re-engage its core South Asian customer base, particularly Indian gold buyers, amid shifting global and regional market dynamics. Once favored for its price advantage, the city is now responding to India’s recent reduction in gold import duty—from 15% to 6%—which has significantly narrowed the price gap between the two markets.

This change has impacted buying habits among Indian tourists and residents, many of whom traditionally flocked to Dubai during festivals like Akshaya Tritiya and Diwali for jewellery shopping. To adapt, Dubai jewellers are shifting focus from just pricing to a value-driven experience built on design innovation, quality, and exclusivity.

Retailers are expanding their collections with contemporary pieces sourced from countries like Turkey, China, Italy, and Singapore, while also investing in locally made jewellery that caters to modern tastes. Unique design offerings—such as Turkish and Calcutta styles, temple-inspired motifs, and enamel work—are being emphasized to distinguish Dubai’s offerings from what’s available in India.

Craftsmanship has taken center stage, with retailers highlighting high-quality finishes and intricate details that appeal to a more discerning global clientele. Lightweight yet visually striking designs are trending, along with lab-grown diamond options for consumers seeking affordable luxury.

While the Indian gold rush has slowed, Dubai continues to attract buyers from diverse markets such as China, Singapore, Africa, and Europe. Industry experts note that tourists today are looking for more than just price—they value an immersive shopping experience, rare design aesthetics, and high craftsmanship.

By reinventing its jewellery retail strategy, Dubai is reaffirming its place as a world-class destination for gold and fine jewellery, driven by innovation, variety, and a refined shopping experience.

US-based fine jewellery brand Angara has officially entered the Indian market, bringing a rich heritage in gemstone craftsmanship and a disruptive direct-to-consumer (D2C) model designed to reshape how Indians shop for fine jewellery.

Founded by Indian-origin entrepreneurs Ankur and Aditi Daga, Angara has grown into a $100 million+ enterprise across the US, UK, and Australia, renowned for its handcrafted pieces featuring gemstones, diamonds, and pearls. Now, the brand is bringing its unique approach to India’s dynamic jewellery landscape, offering bespoke, made-to-order creations that combine traditional artistry with modern technology.

“India’s jewellery market is at a pivotal moment,” said Ankur Daga, Founder & CEO. “People are moving away from generic, mass-produced designs and gravitating towards pieces that reflect their individuality. We’ve perfected this digital-first model globally, and now it’s time to bring that innovation home.”

Angara’s India strategy is anchored in its vertically integrated, digital-first model, which empowers customers to personalise every aspect of their jewellery—from gemstone and carat size to metal type and setting. The brand leverages an intuitive online platform enhanced with AI-driven recommendations, delivering both superior quality and transparent pricing by cutting out intermediaries.

“Indian buyers have traditionally faced a choice between conventional jewellers and expensive luxury brands,” added Aditi Daga, Co-founder. “Angara bridges that gap by offering elegant, meaningful, and affordable fine jewellery—tailored to each individual.”

The brand’s entry comes at a time when Indian consumers are shifting from heirloom pieces to more expressive, everyday elegance. As interest in coloured gemstones rises and the diamond market evolves with lab-grown alternatives, Angara’s expertise in rubies, emeralds, sapphires, and other precious stones positions it well to meet emerging demands.

With over 1 million customers globally and operations in Ireland, Canada, Thailand, and now India, Angara is also eyeing a future offline presence. Plans are underway to launch experiential retail spaces that will complement its digital platform, offering hands-on interaction without compromising the brand’s hallmark of customisation.

To support its Indian expansion, Angara has built an end-to-end supply chain that ensures ethical sourcing, exceptional craftsmanship, and consistent quality. Its made-to-order model aligns with the growing appetite for sustainable, conscious luxury in India.

Angara’s launch marks more than just the arrival of a new brand—it signals a bold reimagining of India’s fine jewellery market. With a legacy of craftsmanship, a passion for innovation, and a focus on personalisation, Angara is ready to redefine how Indian consumers experience jewellery.