Dear readers,
This final Lettre of 2022 is about taking stock.
2022 was not the year we were expecting, and it took us all by surprise.
The war in Ukraine has upset our achievements and our certitudes, along with the equilibrium we had become used to.
We were forced to take difficult decisions – it is no mean feat to review and change a large percentage of our supplies overnight! We had to ask ourselves ever more questions about this diamond industry that we want to build together for the future. A sustainable and economically viable diamond industry, one that respects people and the environment.
But hand in hand, we stood firm and together we continue to move forward and meet the challenges in our path. To do better and to do our best.
We would also like to take this opportunity to thank you – clients, partners, friends, staff – for your presence and support, and thank you for this year at your side.
As for this Lettre, it covers many topical and important issues: how to cope in an uncertain environment, how the lab-grown market is changing and what we can expect from such changes, and why De Beers has extended its sightholder contracts by one year.
In addition, we publish a very well researched and interesting article from Rapaport, which reviews the diamond categories and prominence given to high-quality melee goods.
Finally, we also post an article that is a little different from our usual content and looks back at stories, and the history behind the different trade and maker’s marks on very special pieces of jewelry. Because most of us here do not ‘just’ create and market jewels. We play a role in creating and giving a gift of great value, a legacy, an emotion, a beautiful story. Perhaps there is a Jean Shlumberger or a great jewelry house behind each piece of jewelry, a love story like Isidor and Ida Straus or the innovative spirit of a Claude Lalanne…
In conclusion, we wish you a happy, relaxing and peaceful holiday season and look forward to seeing you in January!
Happy reading and enjoy your week
Source Rubel & Ménasché
