In a landmark decision that will reverberate through the global diamond industry, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA)—the world’s foremost authority in gemology—has announced it will no longer use its internationally recognized 4Cs grading system for laboratory-grown diamonds. Instead, beginning later this year, lab-grown diamonds submitted to GIA will receive simplified descriptors—categorized broadly as either “premium” or “standard”—or no grade at all if the quality is subpar.

While GIA’s move to redefine lab grown diamond grading might sound like a simple nomenclature change, it’s much more than that. This move marks a definitive moment in the ongoing separation of natural diamonds from lab-grown diamonds. It confirms what many in the industry have long known: lab-grown diamonds are not the same as natural diamonds and should not be treated as such.

GIA created the 4Cs—cut, color, clarity, and carat weight—as a rigorous system to help consumers understand the unique and complex qualities of natural diamonds. No two natural diamonds are exactly alike. They are rare geological miracles forged deep within the Earth over billions of years, each carrying a singular fingerprint from Mother Nature. A grading report for a natural diamond is essential because these stones exist along an immense spectrum of characteristics. 

Zen Diamond, the internationally acclaimed fine jewellery brand, introduces The Soirée Collection — a bold and elegant line of contemporary gold jewellery that blends modern design with the finesse of Italian craftsmanship. Each piece in the collection is thoughtfully designed to elevate evening wear, offering a seamless balance of sophistication and standout style.

Crafted in polished gold and accentuated with exquisite detailing, The Soirée Collection brings together sculptural forms, refined silhouettes, and signature touches that celebrate quiet luxury. From intimate dinners to formal galas, the pieces are designed to make a lasting impression.

A standout piece is the coiled gold bracelet, gracefully encircling the wrist with fluid form and diamond-accented ends, shaped in marquise and round motifs. Inside, Zen’s hidden signature diamond adds a discreet mark of excellence.

The wind chime-inspired necklace features a cascade of layered gold bars anchored by a diamond-set central bar and a sapphire clasp, marrying movement and colour in harmonious rhythm.

Another highlight, a sculptural necklace with a twin-arc design, is crafted in warm gold and finished with a diamond-studded bar at the center, embodying strength and elegance.

Sculptural rings in the collection embrace open-ended forms — one featuring a diamond-set square and arrow motif for a bold contrast, while another showcases closely set pavé diamonds at either end, creating a radiant and modern silhouette.

Completing the collection are refined earrings shaped in an elongated marquise form, enhanced by a rhythmic pattern of alternating diamonds along the inner curve. An iris-inspired stud adds a poetic finish, reflecting Zen Diamond’s commitment to detail and artistry.

With The Soirée Collection, Zen Diamond redefines contemporary glamour — infusing timeless gold with modern edge and impeccable craftsmanship.

The African Development Bank (AfDB) has approved a $304 million loan to support Botswana’s efforts to stabilise its public finances and implement key economic and governance reforms amid falling diamond revenues.

It marks a critical intervention in the country’s ongoing struggle with fiscal instability, primarily driven by a sharp decline in diamond revenues. This analysis examines the context, intent, and expected impact of the loan, as well as the broader economic challenges facing Botswana.

The loan aims to help Botswana navigate a widening fiscal deficit—expected to hit 6.7% of GDP this year—after the economy shrank by 1.7% in 2024, largely due to subdued global demand for diamonds, which account for around 80% of the country’s exports.

The $304 million loan is structured as a one-year general budget support operation for the 2025/26 fiscal year, under the Governance and Economic Resilience Support Programme (GERSP). The program is designed to address two main objectives:

Strengthening fiscal sustainability and transparency: Measures include boosting domestic revenue collection, curbing illicit financial flows, and enhancing the efficiency and accountability of public spending.

Stimulating inclusive economic growth: The program supports micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), with a particular focus on businesses owned by women and youth, to foster job creation and reduce inequality.