National News
INDIA-US announcement on reaching a framework for an Interim Agreement
GJEPC hails Interim Agreement framework as a major boost for exports, competitiveness, and India–US trade ties
Welcoming the India–US announcement on reaching a framework for an Interim Agreement, the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) has termed the move a critical breakthrough for the Indian gem and jewellery industry. The proposed zero-duty access for diamonds and coloured gemstones to the US is expected to revive exports, restore global competitiveness, and provide timely relief to the sector after a prolonged period of tariff-led pressure.
“The Indian gem & jewellery industry is elated by the announcement of zero-duty access for diamonds and coloured gemstones to the US under the Interim Agreement framework — a decisive turning point that breathes new life into the sector.
The diamond sector had taken a severe hit over the past year, with India’s cut and polished diamond exports to the US — our largest market — declining by over 60%, from USD 3.64 billion in April–December 2024 to USD 1.45 billion in April–December 2025, as tariffs eroded competitiveness.

Recognising this risk early, GJEPC began focused engagement not only with Government of India but to the stakeholders in USA and across the world. In March 2025, GJEPC formally proposed for the inclusion of cut and polished diamonds and coloured gemstones under Annexure III at the IDMA Presidents’ Meeting in New York. This was followed by coordinated global advocacy through the World Diamond Council in May 2025, alongside representations to key US industry bodies.
Under the announced framework, duties have been reduced to 18% on jewellery, which itself provides meaningful relief to exporters. We are confident that, upon conclusion of the Interim Agreement, diamonds and coloured gemstones will receive full zero-duty treatment as envisaged, restoring competitiveness in our most critical market.
These efforts were actively taken up by the Government of India with the United States. We applaud and sincerely commend the Hon’ble Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, US President Donald Trump & Hon’ble Commerce & Industries Minister Piyush Goyal and the entire government machinery for the remarkable speed and efficiency in reaching this framework within days of the announcement of the deal, a testament to visionary leadership and an unwavering commitment to strengthening India-US trade ties.
The Council has also taken up with the Government of India the need to pursue inclusion of laboratory-grown diamonds and synthetic gemstones under the Annexure III exemption list of US tariffs.”
-Kirit Bhansali, Chairman, GJEPC
source: GJEPC
BrandBuzz
Verlas Introduces the ‘Alyssa’ Collection in India, Bringing Modern Luxe Floral-Inspired Design to Lab-Grown Diamond Jewelry Crafted in Fine Gold
The New York-born brand channels statement floral designs in modern silhouettes and larger carat diamond brilliance into a collection made for weddings, engagements, cocktail evenings, and wedding Trousseau Picks.
Verlas, the New York-based fine jewelry brand, has brought its luxurious Alyssa collection to India, a floral-inspired range of contemporary designs crafted with IGI-Certified lab-grown diamonds and BIS hallmarked gold in 14K and 9K Gold variants. Built around larger carat weights and romantic floral design, the collection pairs statement sparkle with Verlas’ commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship. Since its founding in 2019, Verlas has focused on modern, considered jewelry designed to feel personal and meaningful, handcrafted by skilled artisans in VS clarity lab-grown diamonds set in fine gold.
Inspired by blooming florals, the Alyssa collection translates nature’s motifs into refined diamond jewelry designed for everyday moments in the form of elegant pendant necklaces and Studs designed with florets of round-cut and marquise-cut diamonds, and then there are these luxe styles that call for something more. For bigger celebrations to evening dressing, these luxe designs are crafted with marquise and round-cut diamonds in hoops and dangler earrings, unique tennis bracelets and tennis necklace designs that embrace the designer craftsmanship of Verlas. The Alyssa collection brings signature brilliance to a range of personal styles.
For the modern bride, Alyssa brings together jewelry for every part of her journey—from the engagement and big day to her trousseau, bridesmaids and the little moments beyond. Fashion-forward yet effortlessly elegant, each design is crafted to make a statement today and stay in her rotation long after the celebrations are over.

Among the highlights are the Alyssa Cuatro Floral Hoops, featuring five round lab-grown diamonds arranged in a delicate floret on a solid gold hoop. For a softer, more elegant look, these round-cut diamonds bring a classic appeal – perfect for those who prefer understated sparkle.

If bold and distinctive is more your style, the Alyssa Tres Marquise Diamond Huggies bring an elongated floral silhouette with marquise-cut diamond petals.

The Alyssa Radiant Bloom Ring offers another take on the floral motif, bringing together round-cut diamonds for a radiant, feminine look.

Meanwhile, the Alyssa Trio Marquise Bouquet Ring takes a bolder approach, featuring three diamond florets crafted with marquise diamond petals. Whether you lean towards the elegant simplicity of round cuts or the bolder character of marquise cuts, the Alyssa collection offers a floral style to match.

The Alyssa Marquise Studs bring a fresh take on florals, with marquise-cut diamonds forming an X-shaped motif around a round centre. Easy enough for everyday, yet special enough for evenings out, they’re the kind of pair you’ll keep reaching for.

For a little more sparkle, the Alyssa Marquise-Cut Floral Tennis Bracelet makes a statement without feeling reserved for just one occasion. Its floral diamond motifs bring a touch of drama to wedding celebrations, festive evenings and everything in between.

And when you’re ready to go all out, the Alyssa Marquise Radiant Tennis Necklace takes the floral story up a notch. With twenty-three diamond florets and a total weight of 13 carats, it brings together marquise-cut petals and round diamond centres for a look made to shine at the wedding, reception, or your next big celebration.
Available in white, yellow, and rose gold in 14K and 9K, the Alyssa collection reflects Verlas philosophy of creating jewelry that is beautiful, meaningful, and responsibly crafted. Perfect for elevating bridal looks and everyday romance alike.
With its growing presence in India, Verlas continues to bring its modern design and craftsmanship approach to fine jewelry to new audiences, combining considered design, conscious choice, and a more approachable jewelry experience.
-
National News1 day agoLimelight Lab Grown Diamonds Inaugurates Showroom In Kalyan, Its 8th Exclusive Store MMR
-
BrandBuzz10 hours agoVerlas Introduces the ‘Alyssa’ Collection in India, Bringing Modern Luxe Floral-Inspired Design to Lab-Grown Diamond Jewelry Crafted in Fine Gold
-
DiamondBuzz9 hours agoBelgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever opens expanded HRD Antwerp laboratory in Mumbai
-
National News11 hours agoGold rebounds,Silver reclaims Rs 2.33 lakh mark

