The September 11, 2001, horrors represent a defining moment in history - a day after which life will never be the same. One year later, times are still turbulent and uncertain, but, by and large, in the diamond business we can count our blessings. Read More...

The proposed European Community regulations on rough diamond imports and exports contain provisions the industry can never accept. Under the new rules old inventories may become "conflict inventories" by default. Read More...

It's better to become realistic about the United States market. In the first half of the year diamond jewelry retail growth was less than 1 percent. At the same time, it's net polished imports (imports minus exports) has risen to $3.66 billion in the first half of 2002, compared to $2.92 billion in the first half last year. That is an increase in polished of some $743 million. Read More...

While we all were on vacation, the European Commission finalized its proposals for its own rough diamond trading mechanism. For the imports or exports of rough, the whole of Europe is one single market. Diamonds destined for Antwerp, for example, can be cleared at the customs of any port of entry (in Portugal, Spain, Greece or any of the existing 15 EC member countries and, eventually, in an additional 13 eastern and southern European countries), and the Belgium customs are not allowed to clear the diamonds again. Read More...

For the first time ever, Alrosa published the production figures of its various mining divisions. Its 2001 Annual Report provides a treasure of information, some of which still "hidden" between the lines. Read More...

The very broad legislation enacted in the U.S. (and elsewhere) to aid law enforcement officials in the search for terrorists and seizure of their assets, has given expression to the U.S. public's willingness to forfeit a considerable amount of privacy in favour of enhanced safety. Read More...

When Lev Leviev bought the controlling interest in the then near-bankrupt Namibian Minerals Corporation (Namco) marine mining company, the market sniggered. Namco was seen as a losing proposition. Read More...

The tragic death of Warren Symcox is far more than a terrible loss to his family and friends. The likable and affable Warren was one of De Beers' most brilliant young executives. Read More...

The polishing factories in Botswana and Namibia, subsidiaries of the De Beers mining partnerships with the governments of these countries, are in the process of being sold to select manufacturing sightholders. Read More...

The U.S.A. PATRIOTS Act, passed by Congress in response to the events of September 11, requires all "financial institutions" to institute anti-money laundering programs which guard against exploitation for the purpose of financing criminal enterprises. Many diamantaires and jewelers may not be aware that under a separate U.S. federal law, many non-traditional financial entities are considered financial institutions, including "a dealer in precious metals, gemstones and jewels." The fact that diamond dealers are, at least under U.S. law, seen as "financial institutions" may have considerable ramifications for the industry. Read More...