“We have so much knowledge, expertise, and passion spread across different sectors—miners, manufacturers, traders, jewelers—but no single place where we can come together efficiently” David Troostwyk wrote at the World Diamond Council (WDC).
A new era for the London Diamond Bourse! The London Diamond Bourse (LDB) has always been a cornerstone of trust in the UK diamond trade, but let’s be honest—it’s in need of a shake-up. When I became President in 2024, I knew that, if we wanted to remain relevant, we couldn’t just rely on our legacy. We had to evolve, embrace change, and create real value for our members.
One of the first things I did was push for greater diversity in leadership. For the first time in LDB history, we now have a council that is 50 percent female, including our first female Vice President, Charlotte Rose. This wasn’t just a symbolic move; it was about bringing fresh perspectives and new ideas. We need to be outward facing and make the LDB appealing and truly representative of the industry today.
Talking about the future, Collaboration, growth and strength, David said, the diamond industry is at a crossroads. Traditional Western hubs are facing new competition, trade patterns are shifting, and technology is changing how we operate. But rather than seeing this as a threat, I see it as an opportunity.
The diamond and jewelry industry is, above all, built on relationships—many of which have been nurtured over years, and in some cases, across generations. The trust and understanding that has evolved over time are invaluable and impossible to replicate. These relationships are what we need to foster, and what holds the key to future opportunities for everyone involved in our industry.
Through the reinvention of the London Diamond Bourse and the creation of CiviGem, my mission is clear. We need to galvanize stakeholders to assist in building a more connected, resilient, and forward-thinking diamond industry. Whether it’s through strategic collaborations, championing natural diamonds, or leveraging technology to bridge gaps, I believe we have the power to shape our own future.
London has a legacy in this industry—but legacies mean nothing if they’re not built upon. My goal isn’t just to preserve the LDB’s history; it’s to ensure its relevance for generations to come. With the support of our Council, our members, our partners, and the broader industry, I know we can make that happen.
Heera Zhaveraat (HZ International) A Diamond, Watch and Jewellery Trade Promotion Magazine provide dealers and manufactures with the key analytical information they need to succeed in the luxury industry. Pricing, availability and market information in the Magazine provides a critical edge.
