
Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast
The Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast provides an in-depth look at the global diamond industry, hosted by leading analyst Paul Zimnisky. Each episode features a full-length interview with a special guest from various segments of the diamond supply chain, including exploration geologists, jewelry designers, marketing experts, journalists, and economists. Guests from countries such as India, Brazil, Russia, South Africa, England, Canada, and the U.S. offer diverse perspectives on the industry.
Episodes
The Crash in Diamond Supply and AI Stocks
In this 84th episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Paul discusses the current natural diamond supply situation while also sharing his views on technology stocks amidst the AI boom. The episode begins with Paul referencing a recent brief he wrote called "Diamond Supply is Precipitously Falling," where he cautions an underappreciation for how much lower natural diamond output will
Guest: Sally Morrison Returns
In this 83rd episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, De Beers' iconic marketing executive Sally Morrison returns to the show. The episode begins with Paul ranting about the "word play" used by some in the industry to prop up LGD. The two then discuss whether reverting to referring to "natural diamonds" as just "diamonds" (without a qualifier) could be strategic from a marketing sta
Guest: Danielle Keller
In this 82nd episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, jewelry designer and sustainability consultant Danielle Keller Aviram joins the show from Berlin, Germany. The episode begins with Paul airing frustrations with the direction that the ESG movement has seemingly meandered. Danielle then shares her firsthand opinion on the state of sustainability as it pertains to the jewelry indus
Q&A
In this 81st episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Paul takes questions from listeners. The episode begins with Paul discussing his thoughts on the hyperbolic move in gold. Next, he provides his view on what needs to happen for a recovery in the natural diamond market. Paul then briefly shares his views on Bitcoin/cryptocurrency and explains why he remains committed to covering t
Guest: David Kellie (4th Appearance)
In this 80th episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, David Kellie, CEO of the Natural Diamond Council (NDC), joins for a final appearance on the eve of his retirement. The episode begins with Paul sharing a glimpse of diamond industry catalysts he is monitoring going into 2026. Next, Paul and David discuss the future of the marketing business amidst the advent of new technologies l
Guest: Tobias Kormind
In this 79th episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Paul is joined by Tobias Kormind of 77 Diamonds in London. The episode begins with Paul and Tobias discussing the "inventory light" business model of online diamond jewelers. Next, the two discuss the more mainstream emergence of jewelry customization and how consumers are responding to this new option. Tobais then explains why h
Guest: Tony Carroll
In this 78th episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Paul is joined by Tony Carroll, a distinguished international trade advisor, lawyer and economist based in Washington DC that has consulted for the diamond industry. The episode begins with Tony sharing his experience serving in the Peace Corps in Botswana in the 1970's. Next, Paul and Tony speculate on the future of De Beers giv
Guest: Amish Shah (5th Appearance)
In this 77th episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Paul welcomes back lab-grown diamond entrepreneur Amish Shah –president of ALTR Created Diamonds and J'EVAR. The episode begins with Paul suggesting that autonomous driving technology should be stress tested in Surat, India. Next, Paul and Amish discuss when the diamond and jewelry industry will incorporate AI and robotics techno
Guest: Rob Bates (9th Appearance)
In this 76th episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, novelist and jewelry industry journalist Rob Bates returns. The conversation begins with Rob addressing some of the feedback that his new novel "Making A Killing In Diamonds" received. Next, Paul discusses his recent keynote presentation at the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre Lab-grown Diamond Symposium. The two then share their v
Guest: David McKay
In this 75th episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, independent mining journalist David McKay joins the show from Johannesburg, South Africa. The conversation begins with Paul recounting a multi-week journey he took through South Africa in 2023 and David sharing his views on the current economic and political state of the nation. Next, the two discuss the surge in gold prices and
Guest: Aleah Arundale
In this 74th episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, natural diamond wholesaler Aleah Arundale from Chicago-based Olympian Diamonds joins the show. The episode begins with Paul and Aleah discussing the state of the U.S. diamond market going into the holiday season amidst tariff complications. Next, Aleah enthusiastically shares her views on how the trade is underutilizing the recy
Guest: Tom Moses
In this 73rd episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Tom Moses, Executive Vice President of The Gemological Institute of America (GIA), joins the show to discuss an array of timely industry topics. The episode begins with Tom giving his perspective on the current downturn in the diamond market and how it stacks up against others that he has seen over his almost 50-year career. Pau
Guest: Richa Singh
In this 72nd episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Richa Singh, the Natural Diamond Council's (NDC) Managing Director for India, joins the show for the first time. The episode begins with Paul recollecting his experience of being in India last year, especially as it pertains to the size of the gems and jewelry industry in Mumbai and Surat. Richa then discusses the cultural relat
Guest: Sam Indelicato
In this 71st episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Sam Indelicato from U.S. wholesaler RDI Diamonds joins the show. The episode begins with Paul and Sam talking about how retailers are viewing the proposition of selling lab-grown diamonds as of mid-2025. Next, the two discuss why certain larger, fancy-shaped natural diamond categories are outperforming the rest of the market. Th
Guest: Jon Phillips Returns, Again
In this episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, well respected Canadian diamond industry veteran Jon Phillips returns. The conversation begins with Paul and Jon analyzing the current state of the natural diamond market. They then discuss the "elephant in the room," i.e. lab-grown diamonds, and the impact that the product is having on natural diamonds. Finally, the two talk about De
Guest: Rob Bates (8th Appearance)
Author and industry expert Rob Bates joins Paul for the 8th time in episode #69 of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast. The episode begins with Paul airing his frustration over how some retailers are selling lab-grown diamonds. The two then discuss the current state of the larger diamond industry and the evolution of natural and LGD coexisting. Next, Rob shares what he sees as an analog be
Guest: Amelia Bourdeau Returns
In this 68th episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Amelia Bourdeau returns for a macro-themed episode. The conversation begins with Paul and Amelia discussing the upcoming U.S. presidential election and the impact that it can have on the economy, financial markets and diamond demand. Next the two discuss the Federal Reserve's latest move to cut interest rates and how it relates t
Guest: Erez Rivlin Returns
In this 67th episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, long-time industry expert Erez Rivlin returns to the show. The conversation begins with Paul and Erez analyzing the severity of the current industry downturn. Next, the two share thoughts on the longer-term implications of lab-grown diamonds on the legacy diamond industry. Then, they talk about Western sanctions on Russian diamon
Guest: Charles Stanley
In this 66th episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, now-retired, long-time De Beers executive Charles Stanley joins the show. The episode begins with Charles recounting his earlier days at De Beers in the 1990's, especially as it pertains to the marketing side of the business and the "A Diamond Is Forever" campaign. Next, Paul shares his view on De Beers' execution of the company'
Guest: Maarten de Witte
U.S.-based "master diamond cutter" Maarten de Witte joins Paul to discuss an array of industry topics. The episode begins with Maarten explaining what it's like being an independent diamond manufacturer in American given that the large majority of this work is now done in India and China. Next, the two discuss the process of creating a proprietary diamond cut and Maarten tells the story of Hearts
Guest: Andrew Rickard
In this 64th episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Andrew Rickard from RDI Diamonds, a large diamond and jewelry wholesaler in Upstate New York, joins the show. The episode begins with Paul and Andrew talking about Oak Hill Country Club of which Andrew is a member. Next, the two analyze the state of diamond inventory in the supply chain and how currently volatile diamond prices a
Guest: Anthony Tsang Returns
In this episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Anthony Tsang, CEO of The Future Rocks, returns. The conversation begins with Anthony giving an update on the company and the two discuss Chinese consumers' acceptance of lab-grown diamonds. Paul and Anthony then discuss the background of the company's proprietary "The Ring II," a lab-grown diamond solitaire ring with a created sapphi
Guest: Amish Shah (4th Appearance)
In this 62nd episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, good friend of the show Amish Shah returns. The conversation begins with Paul and Amish analyzing the current "tornado" of factors impacting the global diamond industry: supply hangover, Russian sanctions, LGDs and a possible sale of De Beers. Next, Amish explains the sentiment of diamond manufactures in India and whether they wi
Guest: Rob Bates (7th Appearance)
Mystery novelist and JCK News Director Rob Bates returns to the show for a seventh time. The show begins with Paul analyzing whether the current diamond market softness is more cyclical or secular in nature. Next, Paul and Rob talk about how the retail segment of the trade is currently viewing lab-grown diamonds and whether a "pivot" back to natural diamonds is in the cards. The two then discuss w
Guest: David Kellie Returns, Again
David Kellie, the CEO of the Natural Diamond Council (NDC), returns to the show for a third time. The conversation begins with David discussing the NDC's recent marketing shoot in Canada's Northwest Territories with actress Lily James. David then shares his cold-water plunge experience in minus 30-degree temperatures. Paul and David then go on to talk about the NDC's process for selecting celebrit
Guest: Amelia Bourdeau
In this episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, economic and financial market strategist Amelia Bourdeau joins the show to discuss an array of macro fundamental factors likely to impact the diamond trade. The conversation begins with Paul and Amelia discussing the Federal Reserve's impact on the U.S. economy and what this means for consumers. The discussion then moves to how de-glo
Guest: Mel Moss Returns, Again
In this episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Canadian polished diamond wholesaler Mel Moss returns. Paul and Mel begin by discussing whether the current market downturn is more cyclical or secular in nature. The two then talk about the latest developments in man-made diamonds and Mel shares why he thinks LGDs will end up being sold out of gumball machines. The conversation then
Guest: Guy Borenstein
In this episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, world-renowned gemologist Guy Borenstein joins the show. The episode kicks off with Paul and Guy talking about how many undisclosed lab-diamonds are making their way through the natural diamond supply chain. The conversation then transitions to a discussion on future consumer demand for lab-diamonds relative to natural and how retaile
Guest: Amish Shah Returns, Again
In this episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Amish Shah of ALTR Created Diamonds and J'evar returns to the show. The conversation begins with Amish explaining how he is marketing and distributing his new lab-diamond jewelry brand. Next, Paul and Amish discuss U.S. jewelers' relative hesitancy to stock inventory for the upcoming holiday season. Then the two discuss what declining
Guest: Rob Bates (6th Appearance)
Paul welcomes Rob Bates back to the show to discuss the release of his third book in the Diamond District Mystery Series, "Slay it With a Diamond." The conversation begins with Paul asking Rob if he gets a "serotonin boost" upon the completion of a book. Next, the two delve into the question of whether there will be a specific cataclysmic moment that changes the trajectory of the lab-diamond indus
Guest: Hans Merket
In this episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Hans Merket joins from Antwerp, Belgium. The conversation begins Paul and Hans discussing the Russian mercenary group Wagner and its link to diamond production, notably in the Central African Republic (CAR). The conversation then moves to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the two talk about the work that Hans has done monitor
Guest: Molefi Letsiki
In this episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, De Beers' Sightholder Molefi Letsiki joins from Johannesburg. The conversation begins with Molefi briefly sharing his story of being a second generation diamantaire in South Africa. Paul and Molefi then discuss the current state of the rough and polished diamond market and speculate on how the remainder of the year will play out. The
Guest: Branko Deljanin
In this more technical episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, globally respected gemologist Branko Deljanin joins the show to discuss the detection of lab-diamonds and the chemical traceability of natural diamonds. The conversation begins with Branko telling the story of the first time he saw a gem-quality CVD lab-diamond. Paul and Branko then discuss whether man-made diamond prod
Guest: Rob Bates (5th Appearance)
In this 51st episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Rob Bates, a favorite guest of the show, returns. The episode begins with Paul explaining why he is bullish on the Mexican economy. The conversation then moves to the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence as Paul and Rob share thoughts on what AI means for the diamond and jewelry industry –and on a more existential level.
Guest: Erez Rivlin
Israeli-Belgian diamond industry consultant Erez Rivlin joins Paul to candidly discuss an array of topics including sanctions on Russian diamonds, rough diamond prices and the impact that lab-diamonds will have on the natural diamond industry. The episode begins will Erez giving his first-hand account of the evolution of the rough diamond trade over the last three-plus decades including what it wa
Guest: Michael Zhu
In this episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Paul welcomes Chinese diamond influencer and consultant Michael Zhu, aka "Diamond Spectator," to the show. The two begin by discussing the history of diamonds in China and Michael explains why a diamond engagement ring remains a "solid need" for a marriage in China. Paul and Michael then talk about the emergence of lab-grown diamonds
Guest: David Kellie Returns
In this episode, Paul welcomes back David Kellie, the CEO of the Natural Diamond Council (NDC). The conversation starts out with a discussion about the secondhand, or recycled, diamond market and how that could portray value retention for natural diamonds. Next, Paul and David talk about the NDC's recent "mystery shopper" program and how that work has shed light on consumers' as well as jewelers'
Guest: Eric Emms
In this episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, well-respected London-based Gemologist Eric Emms joins the show. The conversation begins with Eric explaining why he does not think there will ever be a point in time when the industry cannot distinguish between man-made and natural diamonds. Next, Paul and Eric discuss how the gem-grading industry has evolved over the years. Then, th
Guest: Tim Falconer
Toronto-based author Tim Falconer joins Paul to discuss an array of topics including a recent magazine article he wrote on the future of diamond mining in Canada's north. The conversation begins with the two discussing the state of the diamond industry in the Northwest Territories, especially as the world-class Diavik and Ekati mines approach of end of their conventional life. Next, the discussion
Guest: Dr. John Bristow
Well respected South African geologist and geochemist, Dr. John Bristow, joins the show from his home in Hermanus. The conversation begins with Paul and John reviewing the trend of declining global natural diamond supply and discussing what will keep natural diamonds relevant going into the future. The two then have a discussion on each of the primary diamond producing nations in southern Africa i
Guest: Deborah Aroshas & Talchaim Damri
In this episode, Paul is joined by Deborah Aroshas and Talchaim Damri to discuss how their company Capsoul is "presenting the new era of diamond." The conversation begins with Deborah discussing Capsoul's collaboration with TAG Heuer to produce the Carrera Plasma watch –a first of its kind timepiece that includes over 10-carats of single-crystal and polycrystalline lab diamond. The group then disc
Guest: Rob Bates (4th Appearance)
In this episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, good friend of the show Rob Bates returns for the fourth time. The conversation begins with Paul reviewing Rob's diamond industry predictions from 15 years ago. Next, the two speculate on what the next 15 years could bring. Then, Paul and Rob discuss the latest impact that U.S. sanctions are having on the flow of Russian diamonds. The
Guest: Stuart Brown
In this 41st episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Paul enthusiastically welcomes Stuart Brown to the show. As the former co-CEO of De Beers and most recently CEO of Mountain Province Diamonds, Stuart provides a glimpse into the mind of one of the most prominent executives in the diamond industry. The conversation begins with Paul posing the big question: how long will diamonds s
Guest: Amish Shah Returns
Amish Shah from ALTR Created Diamonds returns to the show to discuss the latest in the lab-grown diamond and jewelry market. Paul and Amish begin by discussing LVMH's latest sales results and the two share expectations for the upcoming holiday season. The conversation then moves to diamond supply and how Western sanctions on Russian natural diamonds is impacting lab-diamond demand. Next, the two d
Guest: Anthony Tsang
Anthony Tsang of The Future Rocks joins Paul to discuss the lab-grown diamond jewelry market in Asia. The conversation begins with Anthony talking about his recent trip to Japan and the level of lab-diamond acceptance there. Next, Anthony explains how he positions his company's marketing and logistic strategy to cater to clients from across the world. Then, the two discuss the Greater China market
Guest: Jon Phillips Returns
Divisional Manager at Corona Jewelry Company (Canada's largest jewelry manufacturer) and Responsible Jewellery Council executive committee member, Jon Phillips, returns to the show to discuss current circumstances impacting the diamond and jewelry trade. Paul and Jon begin by discussing the latest impact that sanctions on Russian diamonds are having on the larger industry. Consequently, Jon commen
Guest: George Prout
George Prout joins the show to discuss an array of topics related to lab-grown diamonds. George is the President of the Independent Division of Craft Diamonds, the lab-grown diamond entity within Hari Krishna, which is a De Beers Sightholder and one of the largest diamond mid-stream companies in the world. The conversation begins with George telling the story of how he was inadvertently introduced
Guest: Stephen Lussier
In this episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Paul is joined by industry marketing legend Stephen Lussier. The episode begins with Paul sharing his "wish list" for the diamond industry. Next, the two discuss how the industry should reinvest profits from a record 2021. Then, Stephen explains why he sees men's diamond jewelry as one of the next big opportunities for the industry. T
Guest: Avi Krawitz
Avi Krawitz, Rapaport's Senior Analyst and News Editor, joins Paul from Tel Aviv for a timely discussion on the diamond industry. The conversation begins with Paul and Avi discussing what was happening in diamonds 15 years ago when Avi began covering the industry. Paul then shares his view on how current economic conditions in the U.S. could impact the diamond and jewelry industry in H2 2022, and
Guest: Mel Moss Returns
Diamond wholesaler Mel Moss from Regal Imports in Vancouver joins the show again for a candid conversation about the current state of the diamond industry. The episode starts off with Mel giving an account of his experience going to the Soviet Union to buy diamonds in the early 1980's. Next, Paul and Mel discuss their thoughts on the impact that U.S. sanctions on Russian diamonds will have on the
Guest: George Hadary
In this episode, George Hadary of high-jewelry boutique Astteria, joins the show to discuss the exceptional stone market. The conversation starts with George telling the story of how he got into the business and how he attracts clients. The two then discuss what is driving demand in the high-jewelry market and George provides an anecdote of a ~6-carat "fancy orangey-pink" diamond that he recently
Guest: Rory Moore
In this episode, Rory Moore, CEO of Arctic Canadian Diamond Company (ACDC), joins Paul to discuss an array of interesting diamond-related topics. The conversation begins with the two discussing underwater diamond mining and ACDC's strategy to test a remote underwater mining strategy at the company's Ekati mine to prolong its conventional life. The conversation then moves to the seasonal ice road t
Guest: Reena Ahluwalia Returns
Artist and jewelry designer Reena Ahluwalia returns to the show. The conversation starts with Reena explaining how and why she recently immersed herself in the world of non-fungible tokens (NFTs). Paul and Reena then take a step back and discuss what NFTs (and the Metaverse) are in a more general sense. The two then discuss what NFTs mean for the diamond and jewelry industry specifically, and Reen
Guest: The Armstrong brothers
Brothers, John and Ken Armstrong, both high-profile professionals in the diamond mining industry, join Paul for a special three-way conversation on an array of diamond-related topics. The conversation begins with John and Ken sharing their background stories leading up to their current roles as Vice President of Lucara Diamond and CEO of North Arrow Minerals, respectively. Next, Paul, speculates t
Guest: Rob Bates Returns, Again
Diamond and jewelry industry journalist and author Rob Bates joins the show for a third time. The episode begins with a brief conversation about Rob's new fiction novel "Murder is Not a Girl's Best Friend" and how he manages his time between writing, his day job and family. Next, Paul and Rob exchange thoughts on Signet Jewelers' launch of lab-grown diamond versions of two of its most popular bran
Guest: Evgeny Agureev
ALROSA's Deputy CEO and head of the company's United Selling Organization, Evgeny Agureev, joins the show from Moscow, Russia. Paul and Evgeny begin by discussing the current state of diamond industry fundamentals and whether the "good times will last." Next, Evgeny shares his thoughts on ALROSA's short, medium, and longer-term supply potential. The conversation then shifts to mid-stream participa
Guest: Amish Shah
In this episode, Amish Shah, of integrated man-made diamond company ALTR Created Diamonds, joins the show for a candid, high-level discussion on the lab-grown diamond business. The conversation starts with Amish providing a glimpse into the company's production method and supply profile. Next, Paul and Amish discuss the upstream segment of the industry and address where the market is experiencing
Guest: Grant Erskine & Dr. John Watling
Paul talks with Grant Erskine and Dr. John Watling of Source Certain International, a Perth, Australia-based provenance verification technology company that is tracking diamonds using their chemical signature. The conversation begins with Paul discussing the diamond industry's need for a reliable provenance tracing strategy –and why a chemical signature approach may be the preferable solution. Nex
Guest: James AH. Campbell
In this episode, Paul talks to well-known diamond industry veteran James AH. Campbell, currently the managing director of Botswana Diamonds, a diamond exploration and development company with assets in Botswana, South Africa and Zimbabwe. The conversation starts off with James talking about the early days in his career and about his experience working directly for Nicky Oppenheimer, the famed busi
Guest: Matthew Hart Returns
Author Matthew Hart rejoins the show upon the debut of his latest thriller novel "Ice Angel." The conversation begins with Matthew providing a glimpse into his new book (a follow up to "The Russian Pink") which involves the murder of a diamond prospector in the Canadian North and a plot that parallels the current geopolitical climate between the U.S., Canada and China. Next, Matthew explains how h
Guest: Tom Chatham
Created-gem pioneer Tom Chatham joins the show to tell the history behind his eponymously-named company and to discuss an array of topics related to lab-created diamonds and other gems. The conversation starts off with Tom telling the very interesting story of his father, Carroll, who at a very young age successfully grew commercial-quality emeralds in the 1930's. Tom details the challenges and su
Guest: Mark Brennan
Veteran mining executive Mark Brennan joins the show to discuss an array of topics related to commodities and economics. The conversation begins with Paul and Mark discussing the performance of gold during the pandemic and what current fundamentals could mean for future prices. The two then discuss the current debate around inflation and the impact it is having on mining companies. Mark then expla
Guest: Stanley Mathuram
Stanley Mathuram of SCS Global Services joins the show to discuss the company's foray into diamond sustainability certification. The episode begins with Stanley explaining why SCS is just now getting into diamonds even though the company has provided sustainability certification (more broadly) for jewelry for years. The conversation then moves to how the social versus environmental impact of compa
Guest: Cristina Villegas
Artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) expert and activist Cristina Villegas joins the show from Washington, DC. The conversation starts with a discussion on how the world of ASM employs 40 million people globally, a third of which are women; as Cristina describes "in most cases they are rural villagers trying to make a living." Cristina then provides the story of Moyo Gemstones, a successful colo
Guest: Mel Moss
Mel Moss, a Canadian diamond wholesaler with over four decades of experience, joins the show to share his thoughts on an array of relevant and timely topics impacting the diamond industry today. The conversation starts with Mel recounting his memory of when Canadian diamonds first hit the market in the 1990's. The two then discuss the concept of "diamonds with an origin" and what that means (or do
Guest: Catherine Sarr
Jewelry designer and entrepreneur Catherine Sarr joins the show to discuss her journey of building ALMASIKA into a successful brand which is sold around the world and worn by celebrities including: Reese Witherspoon, Alicia Keys, Oliva Munn, Zoë Kravitz and Lizzo. The discussion starts with Catherine telling the story of how she transitioned from working in corporate positions within the diamond,
Guest: James Kwantes
In this episode Paul talks with James Kwantes, a Canadian mining journalist and editor of junior mining investment publication Resource Opportunities. The conversation starts with James explaining why Vancouver is a hub for mining exploration companies. The two then discuss how the global move to sustainably is dependent on raw materials like metals. Next, James shares a story of his visit to the
Guest: Dale Vince
Dale Vince, founder of the world's first green energy company, Ecotricity, and owner of the Forest Green Rovers Football Club, the world's first vegan professional sports team, joins to the show to discuss renewable energy and his foray into lab-diamonds made from "atmospheric carbon." The episode begins with Dale sharing how he was living an "off the grid, low-impact lifestyle" in a trailer with
Guest: Tiffany Stevens
Paul has an in-depth discussion with Tiffany Stevens of the Jewelers Vigilance Committee, a 100-year-old organization based in New York that provides compliance guidance and legal services to the jewelry industry. The two start out talking about the Ira Sohn Investment Conference, an acclaimed annual event where hedge fund managers give away some of their best ideas for charity; Tiffany previously
Guest: Olya Linde & Sophia Kravchenko
Paul chats with Olya Linde and Sophia Kravchenko of Bain & Co. about their widely read and referenced Bain Diamond Industry Report. Paul asks Olya and Sophia what it's like working for Bain and Olya shares the story of the origins of the diamond report –which has now been published on an annual basis since 2011. Next, Olya shares what she sees as the most prominent general trends in the diamond in
Guest: Jon Phillips
Paul talks with diamond and jewelry midstream expert Jon Phillips who joins the Podcast from Vancouver. The two start out discussing the place in the market for Canadian-provenance branded diamonds such as Maple Leaf Diamonds and CanadaMark. The conversation then shifts to whether consumers actually care about diamond fluorescence and other categorization nuance that is prevalent within the indust
Guest: Matthew Hart
Paul talks with reporter and author Matthew Hart about his recently published thriller novel, "The Russian Pink," which revolves around a fancy pink diamond, a Russian double agent and a U.S. government investigator. Matthew articulately discusses what sparked his interest in the diamond industry as a subject matter and tells the story of the discovery of the Ekati mine in Canada in the early 1990
Guest: Edward Johnson
Paul talks with Ed about the popular series of webinars he hosted for CIBJO in 2020 on the global gem and jewelry industry. Ed recollects some of the pertinent industry trends he noticed while interviewing and talking to over 60 leading industry experts in only nine months. Paul and Ed then discuss the most frequently asked questions of industry stakeholders attending the webinars and Ed talks abo
Guest: Michelle Graff
Paul and Michelle begin by discussing lab-created diamonds and how the product will ultimately be seen by consumers: as fashion or fine jewelry? The two then talk about how lab-created fits into independent jewelers' merchandizing strategies, what the net reduction of jewelers in American means for the industry and how the growth of independent jewelry designers is a trend to watch. Paul then asks
Guest: Rob Bates Returns
Paul welcomes back industry journalist Rob Bates to talk about his recently published novel "A Murder is Forever." Paul and Rob also discuss the latest developments in lab-grown diamonds and Blue Nile's expansion plans. The conversation concludes with the two analyzing Amazon's latest foray into luxury, the company's invitation-only site "Luxury Stores." Hosted by: Paul Zimnisky Guest: Rob Bates
Guest: David Kellie
Paul talks with marketing executive and CEO of the Natural Diamond Council (NDC) David Kellie about how his fresh perspective positions him well for the role of leading the industry's category marketing effort. Paul and David also discuss what made De Beers' "A Diamond is Forever" campaign so successful, what distributing marketing content is like in 2020, how the media covers the diamond industry
Guest: Peter Sainsbury
Paul talks with UK-based economist and author Peter Sainsbury. Paul starts by asking Peter how his new book on navigating the daily barrage of information prepared him for the pandemic. The two then discuss whether the global gold market is manipulated and if there is a ceiling on the gold price. Paul and Peter also talk about humans' innate desire for precious metals and stones, whether the contr
Guest: Geoffrey Madderson
Paul talks with Geoffrey Madderson of TOMRA about how advancements in sorting equipment technology, using x-ray and near-infrared sensors, has significantly improved diamond recovery in recent years, yielding record breaking stones such as the 1,109-carat Lesedi La Rona, the 813-carat Constellation and the 1,758-carat Sewelô –all of which were recovered by Lucara Diamond at the Karowe mine in Bots
Guest: Katie Fergusson
Paul talks with De Beers' Senior Vice President of Social Impact, Katie Fergusson, about the company's kimberlite carbon capture initiative, CarbonVault. Katie provides a background on how De Beers got involved with the project and then the two discuss what it could mean for carbon neutral, or even net-negative-emission, diamond mining. Katie then provides an update on De Beers' parent Anglo Ameri
Guest: Cleo Abram
Paul talks with documentary film producer Cleo Abram about her recent Netflix Explained episode on diamonds. Cleo shares why she chose the topic of diamonds for the piece, talks about what the production process was like and discusses her newfound opinion of the diamond industry. The episode is concluded with the two discussing thoughts on using independently produced content as a foray into a pro
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