International News
Sotheby’s Geneva to hold auction of UFO-themed watches
Sotheby’s Geneva is to hold an “out of this world” auction of UFO-themed watches.With Area_51, Sotheby’s and heist-out, founded by Maxime Couturier and Lorenzo Maillard, are moving the Rough Diamonds concept into space with a UFO-themed watch exhibition beginning on April 1, followed by an evening reception on April 2 and a live auction of 51 lots on April 3.
Among the highlights is a Rolex Starship Gold, circa 1980, featuring an elongated, UFO-shaped oval dial in a “rare deviation from the brand’s aesthetic”.There’s also a Ressence Type 3AM, circa 2017, the first ever watch filled with oil, to ensure the display is readable from any angle, and a number of unconventional timepieces from Audemars Piguet and Patek Philippe.
Another highlight is the Ressence Type 3AM, a groundbreaking 2017 model known for being the first watch filled with oil, a feature that enhances legibility from any viewing angle. The collection will also include avant-garde designs from prestigious brands such as Audemars Piguet and Patek Philippe.
While Sotheby’s has yet to release official price estimates, collectors and enthusiasts can expect a truly out-of-this-world bidding experience.
International News
London Diamond Bourse Announces Launch Of Its New Coloured Gemstone Course
This Intensive One-Day Professional Development Initiative Provides Jewellery Retailers, Frontline Sales Teams, and Trade Professionals With Actionable Product Insight.
In response to shifting market dynamics and surging consumer demand for coloured gemstones, the London Diamond Bourse (LDB) has announced the strategic expansion of its educational framework with the launch of its new Coloured Gemstone Course.
Designed to complement the LDB’s established Practical Diamond Knowledge Course and Diamond Manufacturing Course, this intensive one-day professional development initiative provides jewellery retailers, frontline sales teams, and trade professionals with actionable product insight. The curriculum is specifically curated to enhance client engagement, streamline customer consultation, and support overall retail performance in an increasingly competitive market.
Key Market & Strategic Insights
- Market Diversification: Driven by a growing consumer preference for bespoke and individualised jewellery, coloured gemstones have emerged as a critical growth driver alongside traditional diamonds.
- Margin & Revenue Potential: Expanding gemstone inventory allows retailers to differentiate their product lines and capture higher-margin opportunities.
- Frontline Capabilities: The course directly addresses the trade’s critical need for heightened expertise in gemstone evaluation, quality factors, and value communication at the point of sale.
“Coloured gemstones are as much an integral part of the London Diamond Bourse as diamonds,” stated Charlotte Rose, President of the London Diamond Bourse. “Education is at the heart of everything we do, so we’re delighted to expand our education programme with the introduction of our new Coloured Gemstone Course—a one-day course that gives professionals an introduction to the fascinating world of gemstones and the practical knowledge and confidence to sell them with expertise.”
Inaugural Session & Promotional Launch
The inaugural session will take place on 3 August 2026 at the LDB headquarters in London’s historic Hatton Garden jewellery quarter.
To mark the strategic launch, the LDB is making four complimentary delegate places available (valued at £300 per seat) via a trade engagement initiative on Instagram. Participants can enter by following the official London Diamond Bourse account, engaging with the designated launch post, and commenting with their preferred gemstone. Winners will be formally announced on 28 July 2026.
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