International News
Swarovski Unveils Octagon Collection Featuring Exclusive Diamond Cut
New fine jewelry line showcases patented octagon-shaped lab-grown diamonds, merging precision craftsmanship with modern elegance.
Swarovski has introduced its latest fine jewelry line, the Octagon Collection, centered around a proprietary, patented diamond cut inspired by the brand’s iconic logo. Conceived by Swarovski’s Global Creative Director Giovanna Engelbert, the octagon-shaped cut is a fresh symbol of the brand’s evolving design legacy.
At the heart of the collection is the Swarovski Octagon Cut, boasting 57 precisely engineered facets—32 on the pavilion, 24 on the crown, and one on the table. This unique structure is designed to offer enhanced brilliance and light performance, outshining traditional emerald and baguette cuts.
The Octagon Collection features ten elegant pieces, including bezel-set laboratory-grown diamonds paired with precious metals. Highlights of the collection include a pendant in white or yellow gold, mini hoop earrings in yellow gold, white gold stud earrings, a yellow gold bracelet, and a variety of ring styles—such as solitaire rings in vertical and horizontal settings and a band ring, all offered in both white and yellow gold.
Swarovski described the new line as “a new chapter in Swarovski savoir-faire,” noting that the Octagon cut and its debut collection “balance the timeless elegance of laboratory-grown diamonds with distinctive designs, created to illuminate life’s most meaningful moments—from personal milestones to lasting commitments.”
International News
AGTA appeals US Government to Scrap 10% Import Tariff on Gemstones
Trade body seeks exemption for coloured gemstones under new temporary tariff regime, with potential implications for diamonds.
The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) has formally appealed to the US government to remove the newly imposed 10% global import tariff on gemstones, and potentially diamonds, warning of its impact on the trade.
The tariff was announced on February 20 after the US Supreme Court struck down President Donald Trump’s reciprocal tariffs issued under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). In response, the administration introduced a temporary 10% import surcharge under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. The measure will remain in effect for 150 days unless Congress votes to extend it, though further tariff mechanisms have not been ruled out.
AGTA has submitted a formal request to the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), urging that precious and semiprecious coloured gemstones be added to the exception list under Annex I or Annex II. The association argued that these stones are not mined domestically in the US and therefore should qualify for exemption.
Previously, AGTA’s lobbying efforts contributed to diamonds and gemstones being included in Annex III — a list of products eligible for potential exemption from duties for “aligned” countries. This had placed Indian diamonds and gemstones on track for relief following a prospective US-India trade agreement. However, it remains unclear whether Annex III provisions apply under the new tariff framework that recently took effect.
If the across-the-board exemption request is denied, AGTA has asked the USTR to confirm whether Annex III remains a viable pathway for country-specific tariff relief on coloured gemstones.
While the current petition focuses on coloured gemstones, AGTA noted that trade experts believe any exemption granted in this category could effectively extend to diamonds, as seen in past trade agreements such as the US–European Union deal.

“We will continue to work tirelessly toward eliminating tariffs on gemstone imports into the US. We remain fully committed to this effort — giving up is not an option,” said AGTA President Bruce Bridges and CEO John Ford.
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