Yoram Dvash: Industry unity, producer leadership and marketing investment key to natural diamond's future

The natural diamond industry is navigating a period of significant transition, but there are increasing signs that the foundations for a stronger and more positive future are being built, according to the World Federation of Diamond Bourses (WFDB)...

29 june 2026

AWDC: First fully traceable artisanal diamonds from DRC sold on the international market in Antwerp

In a historic milestone for the diamond industry, fully traceable, artisanal diamonds from the Democratic Republic of Congo have been sold on the international market for the very first time in Antwerp. Below, Ine Tassignon, AWDC spokesperson, provides...

22 june 2026

Natural diamonds most desired luxury jewellery, Gen Z spending double baby boomers, reveals De Beers report

Natural diamonds remain the most desired jewellery item among US consumers, with Millennials and Gen Z driving demand value and spending, according to De Beers Group’s The Diamond Report, which draws on the biannual Diamond Acquisition Study of 18,500...

15 june 2026

Edahn Golan: India’s lab-grown diamond exports surpass natural diamonds by volume, yet value gap widens

India’s diamond industry has reached a historic turning point. In March and April 2026, the volume of lab‑grown diamond exports overtook that of natural diamonds, with lab‑grown stones accounting for 51% and 50.4% of total export volume respectively...

01 june 2026

Dr M’zée Fula-Ngenge: Kimberley Process failing Africa

The Kimberley Process (KP) is failing Africa, and the world's definition of a “conflict diamond” is a moral and legal absurdity, according to the African Diamond Council (ADC) chairperson M’zée Fula-Ngenge. The following exclusive...

18 may 2026

AWDC CEO Ari Epstein steps down from April 16

12 april 2024

Ari Epstein has decided to step down as a CEO of the Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC) after 13 years of service effective next Tuesday, April 16.

"Under Ari Epstein's leadership, AWDC has seen unparalleled growth, innovation and expansion, strengthening our position as a global leader in the diamond industry. Ari Epstein's commitment to excellence, along with a forward-thinking approach, has been instrumental in navigating the complexities of the global market and setting new benchmarks for transparency and success," said AWDC president Isidore Mörsel in a statement.

"This marks the end of an era of visionary leadership and significant contributions to not only our company but the industry at large."

AWDC declined to comment on why Ari Epstein is stepping down or when it would appoint a successor.

Theodor Lisovoy, Editor in Chief of the European bureau, Rough&Polished