International News
Gemfields unearths colossal emerald weighing 11,685 carats at Kagem, sets new record
A colossal emerald weighing 11,685 carats—equivalent to 2.3 kilograms—has been unearthed by Gemfields at the Kagem mine in Zambia, setting a new benchmark in the world of coloured gemstones. By Named Imboo, after the buffalo in the Bemba and Lamba languages, the striking crystal surpasses Kagem’s previous giant, the 7,525-carat Chipembele (“rhino”), which earned Guinness World Records recognition in 2022.
While an emerald claimed to be even larger—53,750 carats—was exhibited in January 2025 by Almighty Gems in Coimbatore, India, that stone has not yet undergone independent authentication. By contrast, Gemfields’ Imboo discovery has already drawn global attention and will headline the company’s ongoing auction in Bangkok, running through 11 September.
The massive crystal was extracted on 3 August from the mine’s Chama pit by geologist Dharanidhar Seth and long-time chiseller Justin Banda. Gemfields said the buyer will be offered Provenance Proof nanoparticle tagging, ensuring full traceability even after cutting and polishing.
Appoinment
Mytheresa Names Francis Belin as New CEO Effective January 2026
Luxury retail veteran and former Christie’s Asia Pacific president to lead the high-end e-commerce platform as Michael Kliger transitions to head its parent company, LuxExperience.
Mytheresa has appointed Francis Belin as its new CEO, with his tenure beginning on January 1, 2026. Belin, who brings extensive experience from the luxury and jewellery sectors, will take over from Michael Kliger, who is set to become CEO of LuxExperience, Mytheresa’s parent company. LuxExperience expanded its portfolio last year by acquiring luxury platforms Net-a-Porter, Porter, and Yoox.
Belin joins Mytheresa following a nine-year stint at Christie’s, where he most recently served as President of Asia Pacific until October. His earlier roles include senior vice president for Swarovski Asia Pacific, managing director for Jaeger-LeCoultre in Japan, and management consultant at McKinsey & Company. He has also served on the boards of Enzo Jewelry and Ben Thanh Jewelry.
In a related leadership update, Mytheresa’s chief marketing and customer officer, Amber Pepper, was recently appointed CEO of the Natural Diamond Council.
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