Mumbai Diamond Services Get Approval to Continue
RAPAPORT. Diamond-grading laboratories and other industry services are allowed to operate during Mumbai’s Covid-19 lockdown, according to a clarification by India’s Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC).
The state government of Maharashtra has exempted manufacturing and related support activities from the restrictions it imposed this week, the GJEPC said in a statement Wednesday after consulting with authorities. The preparation and movement of cargo for exporting and importing gems and jewelry can also continue, the council added.
Maharashtra, which includes Mumbai, introduced strict measures after coronavirus cases in the state soared. Offices are subject to certain restrictions, with the city’s Bharat Diamond Bourse (BDB) closing until further notice. Polishing units are allowed to operate.
Lucara Extends Large-Stone Supply Agreement
RAPAPORT. Lucara Diamond Corp. has added an extra two years to its supply deal with HB Antwerp, enabling it to continue selling all its rough above 10.8 carats to the Belgium-based manufacturer.
“Lucara is beginning to see the benefits of this strategy in accessing a broader marketplace and delivering regular cash flow based on final polished sales,” Lucara CEO Eira Thomas said Wednesday. “We believe these early results warrant an extension of the arrangement for at least 24 months to determine if superior pricing and market stability for our large, high-value diamonds can be sustained longer term.”
Jewelers of America Unveils CASE Award Winners
RAPAPORT. Jewelers of America (JA) has announced the winners of its 31st annual CASE Awards for jewelry design, recognizing retail members whose pieces feature creativity, artistry, style and excellence.
This year, JA expanded the prizes to include 14 different categories after a record number of entries, it said Tuesday. A panel of judges chose the honorees from nearly 200 applicants, evaluating overall design, marketability, originality and manufacturing quality. That compares to just over 100 submissions in 2020.
“Jewelers of America’s CASE Awards design competition showcases the fine craftsmanship and talent of JA members across the country,” said JA spokesperson Amanda Gizzi. “Judging was incredibly difficult this year, as we had a wide variety of immensely talented jewelry designers enter in every category. The judges had to carefully consider the judging criteria, and it had to come down to the finest details to determ
Signet Acquires Jewelry Rental Subscription Site
RAPAPORT. Signet Jewelers has bought subscription-based jewelry-rental platform Rocksbox, aiming to expand the retail group’s services and reach younger customers.
“Rocksbox has revolutionized the jewelry-rental subscription marketplace by delivering personalized, online and data-driven customer experiences for jewelry lovers who prioritize fashion, online convenience and sustainability,” Signet CEO Virginia Drosos said Tuesday.
Signet believes the acquisition will drive new customers to its other banners, which include Kay Jewelers, Jared, Zales, and online jeweler James Allen. The move is the first step in the company’s new strategy, Inspiring Brilliance, which focuses on innovation and sustainable growth. As part of that plan, Signet also intends to add new services and enhance its current ones, such as repair, warranty and piercing, it explained.
Mumbai Diamond Services Get Approval to Continue
RAPAPORT. Diamond-grading laboratories and other industry services are allowed to operate during Mumbai’s Covid-19 lockdown, according to a clarification by India’s Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC).
The state government of Maharashtra has exempted manufacturing and related support activities from the restrictions it imposed this week, the GJEPC said in a statement Wednesday after consulting with authorities. The preparation and movement of cargo for exporting and importing gems and jewelry can also continue, the council added.
Maharashtra, which includes Mumbai, introduced strict measures after coronavirus cases in the state soared. Offices are subject to certain restrictions, with the city’s Bharat Diamond Bourse (BDB) closing until further notice. Polishing units are allowed to operate.