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In this week's episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates share interviews they did live on the 2025 JCK Show floor. They checked in with Cathy Calhoun, Rebecca Foerster, Marie-Claire Daveu, Minister Bogolo Kenewendo and other industry professionals, about the state of natural diamonds, gold prices, consumer trends and more. Sponsor: IGI (igi.org/education)
JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates discuss Victoria's recent trip to Paris as a guest of Japanese watchmaker Credor to celebrate the brand's update on a classic Gérald Genta timepiece from 1979. Next, the pair gear up for JCK Las Vegas by highlighting some of the exciting events on their show agenda, from Rob moderating an expert panel on cybercrime and security to Victoria reporting on emerging jewelry trends from the show floor. Other highpoints on the lineup include a keynote speech from Disney's former head of innovation and live performances by Jason Derulo and Snoop Dogg. Sponsored by IGI: igi.org/education
In this episode of the BAJ Podcast, we speak to Rob Bates, award-winning journalist and News Director at JCK, to explore the ever-evolving world of jewellery—from the rise of lab-grown diamonds and the fall of De Beers' Lightbox, to the challenges of global news reporting and the future of journalism in the age of AI. With over 30 years of experience covering the industry, Rob shares fascinating insights into the trends shaping jewellery today and tomorrow, while also revealing how his passion for storytelling extends into the world of diamond-themed mystery novels. Tune in for a compelling conversation at the intersection of fact, fiction, and the future of sparkle.
JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with Marc Bridge, CEO and founder of online jewelry platform At Present. A fifth-generation scion of the Ben Bridge family, Marc describes a life in the industry that began with cleaning jewelry cases as soon as he was tall enough to reach them, included a memorable cross-country trip to deliver homemade cookies to Warren Buffett, and spanned decades as a problem solver for the family firm. He urges the industry to sharpen its storytelling skills in order to deepen consumers' appreciation for gems and explains his role as matchmaker through At Present, connecting jewelry lovers who crave unique pieces with the artisans who create them. Presenting sponsor: IGI (igi.org/education) Sponsor: Nivoda (nivoda.com)
On The Jewelry District's second video podcast, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates interview Susan Jacques, outgoing president and CEO of GIA. Susan recounts her fascinating journey from growing up in Africa to a life-changing GIA course to an unlikely move to Omaha, where she helmed Borsheims and reported to Berkshire Hathaway CEO Warren Buffett. She even spent a day behind the counter with the billionaire investor. Susan also discusses GIA's mission, her decision to retire, what the industry must do to avoid a crisis of consumer confidence in diamonds, and the upcoming AGS/GIA Converge conference. Watch here: https://youtube.com/watch?v=MGxfPtfKj_I
JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates explore the ramifications of the staggering rise in gold prices and share a strategy jewelers can use to offer gold at more palatable prices. (Hint: Think vintage.) Next, the conversation turns to tariffs. What's ahead? What's the best way to navigate it? Jewelers learned to pivot during the pandemic, and that agility will help them weather today's volatile times, Rob and Victoria predict. They wrap up the conversation with a preview of what to expect when JCK Las Vegas kicks off in June. Presenting sponsor: IGI (igi.org/education) Sponsor: Nivoda (nivoda.com)
In The Jewelry District's first-ever video podcast, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates sit down with JCK managing editor Melissa Rose Bernardo to discuss buzzworthy trends in categories from colored stones to diamonds. With JCK Las Vegas opening on June 6 and Luxury on June 4, it's the ideal time to catch up on the latest looks, from creative new gold and pearl earrings to Mocha Mousse gems and Guatemalan jade. JCK's experts also analyze what surging gold prices mean for retailers and designers and share a silver lining of tumultuous times—jewelry as an emotional support purchase. Watch here: https://youtube.com/watch?v=LymEiIA_QIU
JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with J.K. Symancyk, CEO of Signet Jewelers. J.K. shares his beginnings, from a theater major and aspiring lawyer to specialty retailer mogul, and what customers of sporting goods and pet supply stores have in common with jewelry store shoppers (which is actually much more than you might think!). The hosts and J.K. also dive into the details of Signet's new strategy, “grow brand love,” what it means for Signet's big three brands, Jared, Kay and Zales, the importance of the shift from banners to brands, differentiating the lab-grown and natural diamond categories, and the ever-evolving future of brick-and-mortar stores. Presenting Sponsor: IGI (igi.org/education) Sponsor: Nivoda (nivoda.com)
JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates recap highlights from NYC Jewelry Week, including takeaways from The Plumb Club's Symposium '25 that leaders everywhere can apply to help their businesses succeed. Rob brings listeners up to speed on how the ever-changing tariff news could impact the jewelry industry and shares emerging trends from the diamond market. Finally, Victoria discusses the most-talked-about rumors and reports from the watch world, including acquisitions, major management shifts shaking up the top players, and buzz about a potential new line from Rolex. Sponsored by IGI: igi.org/education
On this week's episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates discuss highlights from the colored gem shows in Tucson, where designers were buzzing over Guatemalan jade. Rob updates listeners on big news from De Beers, which sealed a 10-year deal with Botswana and saw its value written down significantly. In other news, one of Signet's largest shareholders has called for a sale of the company. Rob offers insights into the factors driving these headline-making stories. Finally, Victoria reports on the state of the Swiss watch industry as Audemars Piguet marks its 150th anniversary. Sponsored by IGI: igi.org/education
SENATOR MALCOLM ROBERTS, SIR JOHN REDWOOD & ROB BATESMASS IMMIGRATION AND HOW TO DEAL WITH ITGLOBAL DISCUSSION FORUM EPISODE 07This Global Discussion Forum (GDF) takes on the difficult subject of mass immigration. Speakers: Senator Malcolm Roberts, from Queensland, Australia: Prominent conservative politician advocating migration control, limited government, individual freedom, traditional values.To follow or contact Senator Roberts, visit: https://www.malcolmrobertsqld.com.auhttps://www.facebook.com/malcolmrobertsonenationhttps://x.com/MRobertsQLD The Rt Hon Sir John Redwood: former Chief Policy Adviser to Margaret Thatcher, former Single Market Minister, former Secretary of State, popular political commentator.To follow or contact Sir John Redwood, visit: https://johnredwoodsdiary.com https://x.com/johnredwoodRobert Bates: Director, The Migration Control Centre, think tank committed to controlling and reducing migration to Britain, regular guest on GB News and Talk TV.To follow or contact Rob Bates, visit: https://centreformigrationcontrol.comTo join us on our next Global Discussion Forum, please sign up to our mailing lists at either:https://www.commandingthenarrative.comhttps://australiansforbetter.com https://facts4eu.org/news https://cibuk.orgChaired by:Leigh Evanshttps://facts4eu.org/news https://cibuk.org Deputy Chairmen:Steven Tripphttps://x.com/RealStevenTripp https://rumble.com/c/CommandingTheNarrativehttps://spectator.com.au/author/steven-tripp Ben Philipshttps://cibuk.org Follow us on: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@commandingthenarrative Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4GIXhHBogM1McL5EPGP3DTRumble: https://rumble.com/c/CommandingTheNarrative Please share and spread the word!#AusPol #nswpol #interview #podcast #politics #commentary #australia #uk #independent #media #government #steventripp #leighevans #benphilips #brexit #facts4eu #cibuk #CtN #GDF #ukpolitics #immigration #migration #malcolmroberts #johnredwood #sirjohn #robbates
Victoria Gomelsky and Rob Bates interview John Greene, president and CEO of Lux Bond & Green, a fifth-generation family-owned jewelry store based in Connecticut. John, winner of the 2025 Gem Award for Lifetime Achievement, recounts the story of a 127-year retailing tradition in his family. He also offers insights into noteworthy trends he's seeing on the sales floor. Sponsored by IGI: igi.org
JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates interview our first-ever father-daughter guest duo, Richard “Dick” Hughes and Billie Hughes, co-founders of Lotus Gemology, a full-service colored gemstone testing lab based in Bangkok. The pair give listeners an insider's guide to the complex world of colored stones. Why is describing faceted color gemstones “pure hell”? (“It's like trying to describe the wind,” in Dick's words.) How do experts really detect treated stones? Bonus: Find out how you can learn more from these experts in Tucson. Sponsored by IGI: igi.org
Author and industry expert Rob Bates joins Paul for the 8th time in episode #69 of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast. The episode begins with Paul airing his frustration over how some retailers are selling lab-grown diamonds. The two then discuss the current state of the larger diamond industry and the evolution of natural and LGD coexisting. Next, Rob shares what he sees as an analog between the debut of online diamond retailers in the 2000's, such as Blue Nile, and the more recent mainstream introduction of LGD. The two go on to discuss treated natural diamonds, the global recession in luxury goods, and how Rob's upcoming 4th book, “Making a Killing in Diamonds,” parallels some of the pertinent issues the diamond and jewelry industry faces. Hosted by: Paul Zimnisky Guest: Rob Bates Guest plug: www.robbatesauthor.com More information on PZDA's State of the Diamond Market report: www.paulzimnisky.com/products Show contact: paul@paulzimnisky.com or visit www.paulzimnisky.com. Please note that the contents of this podcast includes anecdotes, observations and opinions. The information should not be considered investment or financial advice. Consult your investment professional before making any investment decisions. Please read full disclosure at: www.paulzimnisky.com.
Victoria Gomelsky and Rob Bates discuss recent holiday sales results and weigh in on what 2025 may bring for jewelers as a new administration takes office, tariffs loom on the horizon, and gold prices remain high. Also discussed is the latest news from De Beers after a less-than-banner year, Rob's upcoming mystery novel (the final installment of his Diamond District series), and how factors such as Pantone's Color of the Year and the Year of the Snake may—or may not—impact jewelry design. Sponsored by IGI: igi.org
Victoria Gomelsky and Rob Bates talk with veteran human rights activist and author Ian Smillie, one of the architects of the Kimberley Process. Ian's unlikely career began when he volunteered to teach high school in Sierra Leone more than 50 years ago and led him to become one of the leading advocates for ending the blood diamond trade. Ian discusses his quest to improve life for artisanal miners, the threats they face from the rise of lab-grown stones, and his new memoir on a life dedicated to combatting global poverty. Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com
On this week's episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates discuss potential ramifications of Botswana's regime change for De Beers and American jewelers. Next, Victoria recounts her adventures in Geneva, where she was a juror for the Grand Prix de Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG), the world's most prestigious watchmaking competition. Finally, the pair shed light on what to expect this holiday sales season—and in the year ahead. Hint: buckle your seatbelt. Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com
On this week's episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates sit down with Bliss Lau, founder and designer of her eponymous brand. BONUS: Hear a special sponsored mini interview with Howard Stone from Jewelers Mutual, who covers ways to protect your staff and store during the holiday buying season. Presenting sponsor: Tracr Sponsor: Jewelers Mutual
Victoria Gomelsky and Rob Bates delve into the launch of Patek Philippe's Cubitus Collection. Victoria shares insight into the revered brand's vision for its new timepieces. Next, Rob explains the philosophy behind a moving new ad campaign by De Beers and Signet for natural diamonds. Finally, Victoria reports on a visit to Roberto Coin in Vicenza, replete with kilos of gold and a masquerade ball. Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com
On this week's episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates sit down with Stephanie Gottlieb, founder and creator of Stephanie Gottlieb Fine Jewelry, to hear how she built her business by tapping into the power of social media, what's ahead for the brand, why she's passionate about natural diamonds, and her picks for holiday bestsellers. BONUS: Hear a special sponsored mini interview with Jewelers Mutual Information Security Offer Grant Hansen about the most common cybercrimes and provides security tips to help jewelers avoid them. Presenting Sponsor: Tracr Sponsor: Jewelers Mutual
On this week's episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates discuss Signet CEO Gina Drosos' impending retirement, reflect on her successes over the past seven years, and speculate on what's ahead for new CEO J.C. Symancyk. Next, the conversation turns to Victoria's recent New York Times report on the coming-of-age of independent watchmakers. These once-struggling fringe creatives are having a mainstream moment, partnering with major players in the luxury sector and seeing their pieces sell at auction for over a million dollars. Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com
On this week's episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with Julia Hackman Chafé, social media manager at Intercolor USA. And hear a special sponsored mini interview with Howard Stone from Jewelers Mutual, who talks store security and loss prevention. Presenting Sponsor: Tracr (tracr.com) Sponsor: Jewelers Mutual (jewelersmutual.com)
JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk Victoria's tour of a Montana sapphire mine and some consolidation occurring in the lab-grown diamond industry. Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com
JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with Greg Verras, watch design director for Shinola, a Motor City icon beloved for its “built in Detroit” timepieces. Greg shares his unlikely journey from a skateboard startup in his garage to high-end watch designer. He touches on what inspires new Shinola timepieces and collections, the hallmarks that make them uniquely American (casual accessibility meets heirloom quality), the wisdom of approaching new trends with care and caution, and the power of storytelling to sell product. Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com
On this week's episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates question whether the Paris Olympics suffered from overbranding and ponder what it means for future games, before discussing recent missteps at Tiffany & Co. and a flurry of C-suite changes at luxury watch brands. Next, Victoria explains how and why jewelry brands are tapping into the travel boom with shops in airports and aboard cruise ships. Finally, Rob brings listeners up to speed on Hodinkee's return to its roots as a watch blog and the factors that prompted it. Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com
Victoria Gomelsky and Rob Bates speak with Constance Polamalu, Chief Operating Officer of Zachary's Jewelers, as well as the owner and founder of both Bloomstone Jewelers and Birthright Foundry. Constance shares her unique entrance into the jewelry industry, as well as the facets of each of her different businesses, from lab-grown diamonds to pieces that represent her American Samoa culture. She also offers insights into selling and interacting with different generations and clientele depending on what jewelry they are looking for. Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com
On this week's episode, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk about celebrity watch collectors and investors, such as John Mayer and Jay-Z, and discuss the new Russian sanctions on diamonds that the G7 council is looking to put in place. As well, there are big changes happening at Richemont, with many of the top executives playing musical chairs, and the Saks-Neiman Marcus merger being spearheaded by Richard Baker with Amazon as an investor, raising eyebrows and leading to discussion about other “e-tailers.” Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com
This week, JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with Pippa Small, ethical jewelry designer and founder of Pippa Small Jewellery, based in London. Pippa has traveled extensively and worked to make sure that both her materials and partnerships are sourced with good intentions. Helping people tell stories through jewelry has always been her passion, and she shares her hopes and dreams for her business, the environment, and the people she has met along the way. Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com
You'll hear JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates share their reactions to the 2024 JCK show, including their impressions of the states of the diamond and lab-grown diamond sectors, takeaways from the De Beers breakfast, their experiences interviewing Botswana President Mokgweetsi Masisi, and how important it is for producer countries to have a presence at the show. Victoria talks about what she saw and learned from her press trip touring diamond factories in Surat, India with Ben Bridge. Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com
JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates share interviews they captured live from the JCK 2024 show floor, including Jan Patrick Smith, CEO of John Hardy; David Kellie, CEO of the Natural Diamond Council; Gina Fahnestock, Senior Associate of Responsible Sourcing and Sustainability at Brilliant Earth; Wesley Tucker, CEO of Tracr; Marie Claire Daveu, Chief Sustainability Officer of Kering; and Susan Jaques, President and CEO of GIA. Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com
JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates react to Watches of Switzerland's recent acquisition of Roberto Coin Inc. As the hosts discuss the slow growth of brands in the jewelry space, Victoria gives the fascinating backstory on Shinola's Gomelsky watch as an illustration of the challenges of launching a new brand. Victoria covers the exciting activations to look out for on the JCK show floor, all in the name of love—this year's JCK theme. Both hosts also run down the education sessions that you won't want to miss this year. Sponsored by Tracr: tracr.com
JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates welcome one of the most influential guests ever to join the podcast—Al Cook, CEO of De Beers Group. Al shares his back story, comments on the current state of the diamond industry, and sheds light on the future of the diamond business in Botswana as well as what lies ahead for the lab grown market. Sponsored by Tracr: Tracr.com Sponsored by Tracr: Tracr.com
Mystery novelist and JCK News Director Rob Bates returns to the show for a seventh time. The show begins with Paul analyzing whether the current diamond market softness is more cyclical or secular in nature. Next, Paul and Rob talk about how the retail segment of the trade is currently viewing lab-grown diamonds and whether a “pivot” back to natural diamonds is in the cards. The two then discuss what they got right and wrong about the evolution of LGD jewelry over the last decade. Next, Paul and Rob dissect a ruling by the U.K.'s Advertising Standards Agency pertaining to LGD producer Skydiamond and they share thoughts on news of for-profit gem-lab IGI reportedly considering a public offering. Finally, the two opine on the watch market and whether they would personally buy a Rolex. Hosted by: Paul Zimnisky Guest: Rob Bates Guest plug: www.robbatesauthor.com More information on PZDA's State of the Diamond Market report: www.paulzimnisky.com/products Show contact: paul@paulzimnisky.com or visit www.paulzimnisky.com. Please note that the contents of this podcast includes anecdotes, observations and opinions. The information should not be considered investment or financial advice. Consult your investment professional before making any investment decisions. Please read full disclosure at: www.paulzimnisky.com.
JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates share news from their recent trips to Geneva and Austin to attend key industry conferences. At Watches & Wonders, Victoria noted a trend toward red and burgundy watch accents, along with a preponderance of derivative designs rather than radical innovations. She and Rob theorize on the reason for the trend. At a well-attended AGS Conclave, lab-grown diamonds and gold prices were hot topics, and Rob got a fascinating behind-the-scenes tour of a local boutique lab-grown producer. Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com
JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with forecasting expert Nancy Leach, co-founder of the consulting firm Gemedge Studio, which helps companies develop strategy and initiatives to drive business growth. Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com
JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates speak with Jean-Claude Biver, president of JC Biver and a living legend of the watch world. He regales the hosts on his introduction to the industry 50 years ago; his time at Audemars Piguet; how he revived the historic brand Blancpain; his time running Hublot; and how he brought pizazz to Omega with help from Cindy Crawford and James Bond. He also reflects on how all those experiences are shaping what he and his son are doing at his new venture, the luxury watch brand, JC Biver. Presenting sponsor: De Beers (institute.debeers.com) Sponsor: Nivoda (nivoda.com/jdpodcast)
Rob Bates and Victoria Gomelsky talk about Russian diamond sanctions, news from Tucson, and a blogger's mysterious Instagram suspension. Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com
JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with Vanessa Fernández, designer, bench jeweler, and owner of Vanessa Fernández Studio. Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com
Rob Bates and Victoria Gomelsky talk about a Platinum Guild press trip to Miami, the increasing need for lab-grown diamond detection tools and protocol, and what's in store at the Tucson gem shows. Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com
JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with Stanley Zale, Principal Consultant at Hill & Company and grandson of Zale Corporation founder M.B. Zale. Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com
Today, Rob Bates and Victoria Gomelsky talk about 2024 predictions, Russian diamond sanctions, and the year in the watch world. Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com
JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates talk with Tom Chatham, chairman of the board of Chatham Created Gems. Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com
Victoria Gomelsky and Rob Bates discuss highlights from an event-packed NYC Jewelry Week. These include a jewelry collective working with artisanal gold miners in Peru, a panel of Indigenous designers channeling cultural traditions into their work, and a Stephanie Gottlieb partnership with De Beers spotlighting diamond provenance. Rob weighs in on whether the Black Friday boom will prove a bellwether for holiday sales then turns the conversation to WWF Switzerland's annual report on sustainability in the watch and jewelry industry. Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com
JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates speak with Olga Oleksenko, founder of the Strong&Precious Art Foundation, which showcases Ukrainian jewelry art and design. Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com
Monday.com's earnings are part of what seems to be a good time to be a tech platform serving other businesses. (00:21) David Meier aand Deidre Woollard discuss: - The evolving climate for business-to-business platforms. - What tech companies need to consider as they hit profitability. - If Monday.com will be the acquirer or the acquired. (19:51) Rob Bates and Deidre Woollard discuss the challenges jewelers face as they roll into their big season. Claim your free five stock recommendations here: www.fool.com/dividends Companies discussed: MDNY, CRM, HUBS, SIG Host: Deidre Woollard Guests: Rob Bates, David Meier Producers: Ricky Mulvey, Mary Long Engineers: Dan Boyd, Chace Przylepa Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today, Rob Bates and Victoria Gomelsky talk about Victoria's trip to Istanbul, WD Diamonds, and the history of sustainability in the watch industry. Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com
JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates welcome Edahn Golan, diamond industry analyst as well as owner and manager of Edahn Golan Diamond Research and Data and managing partner of Tenoris. Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com
JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates pay tribute to former JCK editor Hedda Schupak, who passed away this month. An industry icon as well as a mentor to Victoria and Rob, Hedda steered the magazine successfully through major changes in the early 2000s and played a key role in the early days of its annual Las Vegas trade show. Rob updates listeners on the latest news in Russian diamond sanctions, and Victoria shares highlights from her recent trip to Japan to visit Grand Seiko's studio in the mountain town Shizukuishi. Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com
Victoria Gomelsky and Rob Bates interview Monica Stephenson, founder and president of ANZA Gems. Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com
JCK editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky and news director Rob Bates delve into hot topics from the world of luxury watches, starting with Rolex's recent acquisition of Bucherer and its potential implications for retailers. Next the conversation turns to Audemars Piguet's latest AP House. Finally, Rob shares some encouraging news about a flurry of brick-and-mortar retail openings this year and dishes on the newest installment in his Diamond District mystery book series. Sponsored by De Beers: institute.debeers.com