International News
Gemfields Resumes Emerald Mining in Zambia as Market for Premium Stones Rebounds
Following a four-month pause, the miner restarts operations at Kagem’s Chama pit amid rising demand and improving auction results.
Gemfields has announced the resumption of open-pit mining operations at its Kagem emerald mine in Zambia, following signs of recovery in the global market for high-quality colored gemstones. The move comes after a four-month suspension of mining activities, which began on January 1, 2025, as part of a cost-control strategy during a challenging period for the gemstone sector.
During the suspension, Gemfields relied on processing material from existing stockpiles rather than extracting new ore. While the upgraded processing facility met expectations in terms of carat recovery, the company reported a lower yield of top-quality emeralds, citing the limited potential of stockpiled material compared to fresh ore from open-pit mining.
Encouraged by recent strong auction results and improving buyer sentiment, Gemfields will now restart mining in two high-potential zones within the Chama pit. The focus will be on minimal waste removal and targeted excavation to maximize recovery of premium-grade stones suitable for higher-end sales.
The company emphasized that this restart is a measured step, and it will continue to assess global market trends before making any decisions on returning to full-scale mining at Kagem. Gemfields holds a 75% stake in the mine, with the remaining 25% owned by Zambia’s Industrial Development Corporation (IDC).
The strategic restart underscores Gemfields’ confidence in the rebound of the premium emerald market while maintaining operational flexibility amid evolving global demand.
In a landmark move toward ethical luxury, Chaumet has announced its commitment to 100% gold traceability across all its jewellery collections, beginning in 2025. This initiative will debut with the launch of a new Bee de Chaumet pendant, crafted entirely from responsibly sourced, traceable gold.
With a legacy spanning over 240 years, Chaumet has long drawn creative inspiration from nature—an ethos now deeply embedded in its sustainability journey. As part of the LIFE 360 programme led by parent group LVMH, the Maison is strengthening its environmental and social responsibility efforts, reflecting a broader commitment to nature conservation and ethical craftsmanship.
A member of the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) and supporter of the Kimberley Process, Chaumet has also joined the Swiss Better Gold Association (SBGA), which champions sustainable development in artisanal mining communities.
The upcoming Bee de Chaumet pendant, adorned with the brand’s iconic bee motif, symbolizes this ethical shift. Every component—from the pendant and chain to clasps and rings—is made from gold that is 100% traceable and sourced through verified, responsible channels.
While not claiming to transform the mining industry overnight, Chaumet’s initiative marks a significant step in promoting transparency and integrity across the jewellery value chain—setting a high standard for the future of sustainable luxury.
As part of its outreach campaign for the upcoming Saudi Arabia Jewellery Exposition (SAJEX) and IIJS Premiere 2025, the GJEPC recently concluded a door-to-door initiative in Kuwait, engaging directly with key players in the local jewellery industry.
The GJEPC team met with 92 top retailers from key markets including Al Mubakariya, Souq Al Wataniya, Souq Al Sharq, and the Farwaniya Gold Market.
The focused meetings with leading retailers, manufacturers, and wholesalers, offered insights into the Kuwaiti market’s preferences and dynamics. The response was highly encouraging, with strong interest expressed in attending SAJEX 2025, which is set to become a vital networking hub for the jewellery industry across the MENA region.
International News
De Beers CEO Al Cook Engages with GJEPC Leaders During Strategic Visit to Mumbai Office
Al Cook, CEO of De Beers Group, visited the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) office in Mumbai, reinforcing the group’s commitment to deeper collaboration with the Indian diamond industry. He was accompanied by senior executives including Paul Rowley, Executive VP – Diamonds Trading; Shweta Harit, Global Senior VP; and Amit Pratihari, VP of De Beers Forevermark India.
The visit follows the successful joint launch of the Indian Natural Diamond Retailer Alliance (INDRA) earlier this year—a strategic initiative to boost India’s natural diamond retail ecosystem.
Mr. Cook and his team were welcomed by a distinguished delegation from GJEPC, including Shaunak Parikh, Vice Chairman; Russell Mehta, Advisor to the Chairman; Ajesh Mehta, Convener – Diamond Panel; Diamond Panel Members Anoop Mehta, Nilesh Kothari, Anil Virani, Manish Jiwani, Ashish Borda; and Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director.
The meeting featured in-depth discussions on pressing industry topics such as traceability, G7 compliance, funding challenges, U.S. tariffs, and marketing strategies, aimed at strengthening India’s global competitiveness in the diamond sector.
The engagement signals a continued partnership between De Beers and GJEPC to drive growth, innovation, and transparency across the diamond value chain.
-
BrandBuzz2 months agoMia by Tanishq Unveils ‘Fiora’ Collection This Akshaya Tritiya: A Celebration of Nature’s Blossoms and New Beginnings
-
GlamBuzz1 week agoGokulam Signature Jewels Debuts in Hyderabad with Glamorous Launch at KPHB
-
National News1 week agoEmmadi Silver Jewellery Launches First Karnataka Store with Grand Opening in Bengaluru’s Malleshwaram
-
DiamondBuzz1 week agoDe Beers CEO: confident the US will exempt diamonds from reciprocal tariffs