DiamondBuzz
JA, key industry persons met Washington officials on concerns about Russian sanctions
Jewelers of America (JA) and key industry figures met with lawmakers in Washington, DC, last week to express their concerns about plans for sanctions on Russian diamonds.
Jewelers of America (JA) and key industry figures met with lawmakers in Washington, DC, last week to express their concerns about plans for sanctions on Russian diamonds.
“JA has been working tirelessly behind the scenes, and this visit to Washington, DC, was a critical step to ensure we minimize unnecessary disruptions to the US diamond industry,” JA president and CEO David Bonaparte said in a statement Tuesday. “We are very concerned about the additional requirements that could take effect on September 1.”
These would include adopting a European Union proposal forcing all 0.50-carat and larger diamonds destined for Group of Seven (G7) markets to pass through a single import channel in Belgium, Bonaparte noted.
JA supports efforts to keep diamonds of Russian origin out of the supply chain, including the more stringent rules that went into effect on March 1, it said. These require importers to self-certify that diamonds of 1 carat or larger are not Russian, notwithstanding their having been manufactured in a third country.
However, mandating physical verification and certification in Belgium for all rough diamonds “would cause maximum damage to the global diamond and jewelry supply chain, while having minimal effect on Russia’s diamond revenues,” JA argued in the statement.
Joining Bonaparte on the visit were Jon Bridge, chairman and counsel emeritus at Ben Bridge Jeweler; Dave Meleski, president and CEO of Richline Group; Matthew Swibel, vice president for sustainability and social impact at Signet Jewelers; and Ronnie VanderLinden, immediate past president of the Diamond Manufacturers Importers Association of America (DMIA) and president of the International Diamond
VBJ, Vummidi Bangaru Jewellers, one of South India’s most trusted heritage jewellery brands, partnered with IGNITION, the acclaimed thought leadership platform presented by the Shiv Nadar Foundation and curated by award-winning journalist Shoma Chaudhury. Held at ITC Grand Chola, Chennai, the event brought together distinguished voices from diplomacy, cinema and international affairs, while VBJ showcased its latest PARRO – Signature Collection, celebrating exceptional craftsmanship inspired by nature.
The evening featured compelling conversations with Dr. Abdul Majid Hakeem Ilahi, representative of Iran’s Supreme Leader, who shared perspectives on the evolving geopolitical landscape in West Asia; acclaimed actor Ali Fazal, who reflected on his artistic journey from Indian cinema to Hollywood; and former Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale, who discussed the changing global order and insights from his latest book, China’s Wars.
Adding an artistic dimension to the evening, VBJ unveiled a curated display of its PARRO – THE SIGNATURE PARROT COLLECTION, an exclusive line inspired by the grace, vibrancy and symbolism of the parrot. Combining intricate craftsmanship with contemporary design sensibilities, the collection reflects VBJ’s enduring commitment to transforming nature into timeless wearable art.
Speaking on the occasion, Amarendran Vummidi, Managing Partner, VBJ, said:
“IGNITION has established itself as a platform where influential voices come together to spark conversations that shape perspectives. At VBJ, we believe that meaningful ideas and enduring craftsmanship both have the power to inspire generations. Our continued association with IGNITION reflects our commitment to supporting platforms that celebrate excellence, dialogue and creativity.”
Jithendra Vummidi, Managing Partner, VBJ, added:
“The PARRO collection embodies our pursuit of artistry that is rooted in heritage yet resonates with contemporary lifestyles. Presenting it at IGNITION, a forum that celebrates ideas, innovation and culture, is a fitting way to showcase how timeless craftsmanship continues to evolve while staying true to its origins.”
As a fifth-generation family-run brand, VBJ takes immense pride in its legacy as the creator of the historic Sengol (sceptre) – a sacred symbol of India’s democratic journey. Rediscovered after 72 years through meticulous research by the VBJ team, the Sengol was reinstated beside the Speaker’s chair in India’s new Parliament building, Sansad Bhavan, by Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking VBJ’s enduring bond with India’s cultural and national heritage. Continuing this legacy, VBJ is now set to unveil its largest jewellery showroom on Coimbatore’s 100ft Road.
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