DiamondBuzz
G7 traceability mechanism implementation delayed for a second time
Plans to support diamond sanctions on Russia with a blockchain-backed traceability mechanism have been delayed for a second time.The G7 and EU nations originally intended to implement the scheme on 1 September 2024, but in June 2024 it was put back to March 2025. And last week it was delayed again, until 1 January 2026.
The announcement was made last week in the 16th sanctions package against Russia, marking the third anniversary of its invasion of Ukraine.The postponement has been widely welcomed within the industry, where many feel the introduction would otherwise be rushed and poorly planned.

The Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC) said an additional 10 months would give diamond companies time to prepare properly. The new sanctions package also requires diamond traders importing rough diamonds of mixed origin to present a Kimberley Process certificate listing all countries of origin “At this stage, there is still considerable uncertainty about how the traceability system will function and how it will be governed, and the G7 must first clarify these aspects,” said CEO Karen Rentmeesters
DiamondBuzz
Earth’s Billion-Year Secret Unearthed: 42-Carat Diamond Discovery Shocks Experts
A historic natural blue diamond from South Africa’s iconic Cullinan Mine captures global scientific and luxury attention
A rare and fascinating discovery has caught the attention of the world. A natural blue diamond weighing 41.82 carats has been found at the Cullinan Mine in South Africa, one of the most famous diamond mines in history. The diamond was discovered by Petra Diamonds, a South African mining company known for uncovering some of the world’s most exceptional stones.
For readers unfamiliar with the mine, the Cullinan Mine has a legendary reputation. It is the same mine that produced the original Cullinan Diamond, the largest rough diamond ever found, parts of which are now set in the British Crown Jewels. Discoveries from this mine have shaped global diamond history for more than a century.

This newly found blue diamond stands out not just because of its size, but because of its deep natural colour and clarity. Blue diamonds are among the rarest diamonds on earth. Even more unusual is finding a stone where size, colour and clarity come together so perfectly. Experts believe diamonds like this often go on to become historic jewels or prized museum pieces.
A Jewellery expert and author said, “The discovery of a 41.82-carat natural blue diamond at the Cullinan Mine is a rare and globally significant event. Combining exceptional size, vivid blue colour, and high clarity—an exceedingly uncommon alignment—this Type IIb diamond stands out as both a historic gemstone and a scientific marvel. Such discoveries reinforce South Africa’s legacy of extraordinary diamond finds and capture the imagination of collectors, museums, and the global luxury world.”
What makes blue diamonds especially fascinating is how they are formed. Their colour comes from tiny traces of boron that enter the crystal structure deep inside the earth. These diamonds are created billions of years below the surface under intense pressure and heat, making each stone a natural wonder shaped long before human civilisation began.
For Indian audiences, this discovery holds special meaning. India has a deep historical connection with diamonds, from the legendary Golconda mines to its position today as one of the world’s largest jewellery markets. Rare natural diamonds continue to hold emotional and cultural value for Indian consumers who see them as symbols of legacy, permanence, and artisanship.
As this 42-carat blue diamond begins its journey from the mine to a possible polished masterpiece, it has already secured its place as one of the most talked about diamond discoveries in recent times. It serves as a reminder that some of the world’s greatest treasures are still hidden beneath the earth, waiting to be found.
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