Namibia signed the Luanda Accord in Cape Town on February 9, 2026, while GJEPC and DMCC agreed pathways toward Natural Diamond Council membership to support global natural diamond marketing efforts.

Following the India–US Interim Agreement framework announcement, GJEPC confirms duty reduction on jewellery to 18% and anticipates zero-duty access for diamonds and coloured gemstones in the US market.

In order to meet the challenges of the diamond industry head on, De Beers has devised a multi-pronged strategy – the major steps include upping investment in marketing, participating in the Luanda Accord, developing a range of category campaigns, collaborating with key retail partners to grow demand, and investing in branded marketing programmes for its own retail businesses, says David Johnson, VP, Global External Communications, De Beers Group, in a conversation with Suneeta Kaul.

In spite of an 8.76% dip in cut and polished diamond exports during April-November 2025, GJEPC remains optimistic about India’s export performance in 2026. The Council is looking forward to the BTA with the US, and should that take longer than expected, it will take all necessary measures in coordination with the government and stakeholders to support exports, and ensure continued growth, says Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director, GJEPC, in a conversation with Suneeta Kaul.

Forevermark Diamond Jewellery opened De Beers Group’s largest flagship store in Mumbai on January 8, 2026, strengthening its India retail strategy and marking the launch of the new Icon Collection.

Dassani Brothers launched its Varnika diamond jewellery collection at IIJS Signature 2026 in Mumbai, marking the brand’s entry into contemporary design-led diamond offerings while expanding its product portfolio for retailers.

IIJS Bharat Signature 2026 opened at JWCC, Mumbai, bringing together industry leaders, and 1,600 exhibitors and global buyers; with a focus on exports, product launches, and knowledge sessions, the show is likely to set the tone for the industry for the rest of the year.

BIS has notified IS 19469:2025 in Mumbai, adopting the ISO diamond disclosure norms, following the GJEPC initiative, to strengthen consumer transparency as India’s diamond jewellery demand expands nationwide.

GJEPC welcomes India’s election as Kimberley Process Chair for 2026, effective January 1, following December 2025 consensus approval, reinforcing India’s role in governing global rough diamond trade.

India’s gold industry body IAGES launches the #PehlaCheckIAGES campaign on December 4 in Mumbai, urging consumers to verify jewellers’ IAGES accreditation to promote ethical practices, transparency and sector-wide compliance.

Bharat Diamond Bourse strengthened its focus on global compliance by hosting the RJC Roadshow, where international experts guided diamantaires on updated standards, assurance systems, and ESG-led responsible practices shaping the diamond value chain.

Angara introduces ‘Angara Man’, a handcrafted, customizable men’s fine jewellery collection featuring modern signets, bands, gemstone accents and engineered designs, marking a significant expansion of the brand’s India strategy ahead of International Men’s Day.

GSI and Mindron introduce Trusure Apex, an advanced screening instrument engineered for rapid, accurate detection of natural, lab-grown, and simulant diamonds across all jewellery formats, enhancing trust and efficiency for retailers and manufacturers.

The global jewellery fraternity convened in Paris for the 2025 CIBJO Congress, where industry leaders, policymakers, and experts gathered to discuss the evolving landscape of the gem and jewellery trade.