India can move beyond being a major producer of laboratory-grown diamonds to becoming a global technology leader by developing indigenous equipment, advanced materials, device fabrication capabilities, and high-value industrial applications, says Prof. M.S. Ramachandra Rao, Head of the India Centre for Lab Grown Diamond (InCent-LGD) at IIT Madras, in a conversation with Suneeta Kaul. Prof. Rao was one of the main organizers of GJEPC's VAIRAM 2026 Workshop, held earlier this year at the campus of IIT Madras.

Aisshpra Gems & Jewels launched its 15th showroom on April 10, 2026, in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh, expanding in Tier-2 markets, introducing ‘Jewel Story’, and strengthening its franchise-led retail growth strategy.

With customers entering stores pre-informed and decision-ready, jewellery retailers are witnessing a shift in conversion dynamics, making in-store experience design a critical factor in influencing final purchase outcomes.

De Beers and Sotheby’s unveiled a 28.88-carat Type IIa diamond from Jwaneng, set for Hong Kong auction, underscoring rarity, provenance and sustained demand for high-value natural diamonds in Asia.

Gemfields reported improved loss metrics for FY2025 despite operational disruptions at Montepuez and Kagem, with auction revenues at $ 129 million and focus shifting to stabilization and deleveraging in 2026.

Kushals Fashion Jewellery opened four new stores in Hyderabad on January 28 to expand its Telangana footprint, taking its city total to 17 as part of its retail growth plan.

Zen Diamond has partnered Francorp to scale franchise-led retail in India, targeting over 20 stores by 2026 across Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities amid rising demand for branded diamond jewellery.

Gargi by P.N. Gadgil & Sons rolls out nationwide Black Friday promotions from November 28–30, offering flat 25% discounts across silver, brass fashion jewellery and diamond jewellery making charges to drive festive-season gifting.

Candere by Kalyan Jewellers introduces a refined curation of affordable luxury essentials crafted for contemporary professionals, blending minimalist design, elevated craftsmanship, and everyday versatility to redefine what modern, wearable elegance truly looks like.

Limelight Diamonds opens first Gandhidham store, sixth in Gujarat, with actor Malhar Thakar at the launch, marking continued expansion of the brand’s lab-grown diamond jewellery retail presence across the state.

Kaha Diamonds’ new Bengaluru boutique offers a contemporary fine jewellery experience centred on sustainability, personalization, and IGI-certified lab-grown diamonds, bringing meaningful luxury and expressive design to the new-age, conscious consumer.

The brand strengthens its retail presence with three new stores this festive season

Kalyan Jewellers Foundation strengthens community health by expanding access to life-saving dialysis care.

Global fine jewellery brand Zen Diamond has strengthened its presence in India with the launch of two new stores in Bengaluru, following its successful entry into Mumbai last year. The brand, known for its natural diamond expertise and contemporary designs, has opened outlets at Phoenix Mall of Asia and Phoenix Marketcity, marking its expansion into South India.