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

Okavango Diamond Company MD Mmetla Masire to step down

24 november 2025

Botswana's state-owned Okavango Diamond Company (ODC) has announced that managing director Mmetla Masire will conclude his tenure on December 1, 2025, following an amicable and mutually agreed decision with the board.

Masire, who has led ODC since July 12, 2021, oversaw a significant turnaround at the company.

Under his leadership, ODC achieved its highest-ever revenue during the 2022/2023 financial year, implemented a new organisational structure, and diversified its sales channels.

The board expressed appreciation for Masire's contributions, citing his "dedication, professionalism and unwavering commitment to the company’s growth."

In a statement, they noted he leaves ODC "in a strong position" and has "expressed full confidence in the team’s ability to sustain the momentum."

To ensure a smooth transition, chief financial officer Lipalesa Makepe will serve as acting managing director.

Both Masire and the board have committed to a seamless leadership handover as ODC prepares for its next strategic phase.

Mathew Nyaungwa, Editor-In-Chief, Rough & Polished