Editor’s Note
This report highlights the recent gathering of global jewellery leaders in Paris for the 2025 CIBJO Congress. The event brought together industry stakeholders to address key trends and challenges shaping the future of the gem and jewellery sector.
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.
The 2025 CIBJO Congress in Paris opened with a series of insightful sessions addressing some of the most pressing issues facing the global jewellery industry—from consumer confusion over natural and synthetic diamonds to the impact of geopolitical tensions, trade tariffs, and sustainability imperatives.
CIBJO President Gaetano Cavalieri inaugurated the event by reflecting on the organisation’s 99-year legacy and its role as “the jewellery industry’s parliament.” As the World Jewellery Confederation approaches its centenary in 2026, he emphasised CIBJO’s continued mission to unite global stakeholders and uphold ethical, educational, and sustainable standards across the supply chain.
In a session on consumer perceptions, panellists including Mahiar Borhanjoo (De Beers Group) and David Kellie (Natural Diamond Council) warned that confusion between natural and synthetic diamonds remains one of the industry’s most urgent challenges.
Another panel examined geopolitical and trade pressures, led by Feriel Zerouki (World Diamond Council) and Karen Rentmeesters (AWDC). Discussions focused on the ripple effects of U.S. tariffs, sanctions on Russian diamonds, and tightening ESG regulations.
The State of the Industry session brought attention to sustainability, shifting consumer preferences, and volatile precious metal prices. Terry Hayman (World Gold Council) pointed to record gold prices driven by central bank demand, while Tim Schlick (Platinum Guild International) identified new opportunities in platinum jewellery as consumers seek alternatives.
As CIBJO prepares to celebrate its 100th year in Vicenza in 2026, the Paris Congress reaffirmed the organisation’s enduring commitment to promoting unity, ethical practices, and resilience in an industry navigating rapid change.