In a thought-provoking panel discussion that brought together industry leaders in manufacturing and certification, Ankit Shah, Director at Ankit Gems, and Tom Neys, Spokesperson for HRD Antwerp, shared insights on the enduring value and evolving role of natural diamonds in a changing marketplace.
Highlighting Ankit Gems’ steadfast commitment to natural diamonds, Shah reaffirmed the company’s legacy-driven yet forward-looking approach. “We’ve always been a natural diamond company. That’s where we see not just legacy, but long-term opportunity,” he said, underscoring the brand’s vertically integrated model that combines heritage craftsmanship with sustainable, technology-driven production.
From the certification front, Neys outlined HRD Antwerp’s decision to phase out grading of lab-grown diamonds by 2026—a move aimed at strengthening consumer trust and market transparency. “Confusion damages trust. Our focus is to support the natural diamond industry with tools that bring confidence back into the market,” he explained.
The dialogue reflected a shared conviction that natural diamonds, when responsibly sourced and authentically certified, continue to embody both rarity and relevance. Rather than resisting innovation, both leaders urged the industry to embrace change responsibly while preserving its core values.
As Shah concluded, “Let’s grow the natural diamond business—together.” The discussion served as a timely reminder that authenticity, underpinned by transparency and ethics, remains the most powerful strategy for the future of diamonds.
