The Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast provides a look into the global diamond industry with leading analyst Paul Zimnisky. Each episode features a full-length interview with a special guest to discuss the diamond industry and related topics while sharing interesting observations, thoughts and analysis. A wide range of guests from around the world have joined the show from all segments of the diamond supply chain and beyond, including: exploration geologists, jewelry designers, marketin ...
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Insights and advice from the jewelry industry's top designers, manufacturers, bench jewelers, business executives, and educators.
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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 shar…
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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 …
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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…
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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-…
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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…
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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 natura…
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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 t…
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Best known for his pieces that highlight the vivid contrast between high karat gold and oxidized sterling silver, Denver-based jeweler Alex Boyd also teaches at workshops across the country. Sponsored by: Rio Grande To see the video edition of this episode and the complete "5 Favorite Tools" series, visit: mjsa.info/5favorites…
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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 …
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Andrew Bugher is a custom jeweler specializing in creating unique, handcrafted pieces utilizing his expertise in casting, forging and sculpting. Bugher's style combines rugged nature-inspired shapes and textures with more polished and refined details and finishing. Sponsored by: Rio Grande To see the video edition of this episode and the complete "…
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A goldsmith and founder of WEND Jewelry in Seattle, Wendy Woldenberg taught high school jewelry/metals for 22 years while making custom jewelry on school breaks. After a two-week backpacking trip around Mount Rainier, everything changed. She founded WEND Jewelry, a rugged fine jewelry brand focused on ethical sourcing and nature-inspired designs. S…
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Melissa Muir is a jewelry artist and teacher who's renowned for her high quality, incisive instructional videos and tool reviews. In this episode, Melissa shares five of her most essential tools and explains the role each plays in making her more efficient and productive at the bench. Sponsored by: Rio Grande To see the video edition of this episod…
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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 so…
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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 fo…
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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 h…
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Favorite Finishing Touches, with Lee Krombholz
10:42
10:42
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Lee Krombholz, owner of Cincinnati-based Krombholz Jewelers, longtime member of the MJSA board of directors, and vice chair of the MJSA Education Foundation, is a third-generation jeweler who has won multiple awards for his custom designs. Krombholz blends cutting-edge technology with old-world craftsmanship to achieve heirloom quality results. In …
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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 th…
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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 …
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Discovering the Magic of Steel, with Bette Barnett
14:22
14:22
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Bette Barnett, owner of Studio Migoto, in La Mesa, California, is recognized for her expertise fusing steel with gold utilizing various techniques. In this episode, Bette discusses her transition from a career working in corporate communications to one in jewelry-making, how she discovered her love for working with steel, and her forthcoming book a…
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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…
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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…
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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 j…
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Granulation: Art & Inspiration, with David Huycke
10:21
10:21
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David Huycke is an internationally renowned Belgian silversmith, best known for his innovative approach to metalwork, specifically the use of granulation techniques in larger sculptural silverware. In this episode, Huycke discusses his creative process, sources of inspiration, and how he approaches testing and developing new techniques and methods.…
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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 ove…
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The Foundations of a Sustainable Jewelry Practice, with Christina Miller
19:10
19:10
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Christina Miller is the founder of Christina T. Miller Sustainable Jewelry Consulting, providing strategy, education, and guidance to small and medium-sized companies in the jewelry and fashion industries. In this episode, Miller, shares her insights and tips for building and supporting a sustainable jewelry business. •Click here for video, show no…
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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 th…
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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 …
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Cutting Loose: Exploring the World of Diamonds with Maarten de Witte
29:04
29:04
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Maarten de Witte is one of the world’s premier diamond cutters and experts, renowned as a craftsman, innovator (he created the American Rose Brilliant Cut), and educator. In this episode, de Witte discusses the lessons he’s learned during his 50 years in the trade, his approach to art and creativity, the future of man-made diamonds, and the importa…
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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-gra…
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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 en…
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Crossing Over: From Jewelry Maker to Tool Supplier
18:00
18:00
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Jewelers tend to be innovators, especially when it comes to altering and creating tools. We spoke with three jewelers—Jeanette Caines, Jayne Redman, and Ronda Coryell—who not only developed their own tools, but successfully brought them to market. In this episode, they share their stories and explain the key factors that inspired their respective j…
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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 prim…
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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 an…
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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. sanctio…
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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…
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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 diamond…
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What Jewelry Makers Need to Know About Mass Finishing with Judy Hoch
15:30
15:30
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Judy Hoch of Marstal Smithy (author of Tumble Finishing for Handmade Jewelry) discusses the benefits of mass finishing, why it might be right for your shop, and why she considers it the safest most effective way to finish jewelry. •Click here for video, show notes, links, and other resources. •Learn more about MJSA…
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Pushing the Boundaries of Beading with Valerie Hector
10:31
10:31
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Bead artist and metalsmith Valerie Hector (Valerie Hector Designs) brings a background in anthropology, deep knowledge of Asian bead styles, and a passion for pushing boundaries to her work. In this episode, Hector discusses her creative approach to design and why she's driven to develop new techniques. •Click here for video, show notes, links, and…
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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 wor…
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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 havin…
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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 tellin…
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What Jewelry Makers Need to Know About Casters with Scott Bradford
26:29
26:29
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Scott Bradford understands the relationship between good design and a good casting. In this episode, Bradford shares his advice on how jewelry makers and designers can achieve better cast items, especially when working with a contractor. •Click here for video, show notes, links, and other resources. •Learn more about MJSA…
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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…
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Tips for Keeping Jewelry Businesses Safe with John Kennedy
26:29
26:29
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While cybercriminals and scammers continue to target jewelry businesses, a recent uptick in brutal robberies and thefts point toward a frightening trend. In this episode, John Kennedy, president of the Jewelers’ Security Alliance, shares what jewelers need to know about the recent rise in violent crime and reviews key security procedures that busin…
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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…
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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.…
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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-ca…
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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 …
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Responsibly Sourcing Colored Gemstones with Eric Braunwart
29:17
29:17
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No official certifications currently exist for responsibly sourced colored stones—so Eric Braunwart, president of Columbia Gem House, created his own system to provide his customers with the origin story of each gem. In this podcast, Braunwart—a longtime leader in responsible practices—tells his own story in selling colored stones, promoting respon…
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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 d…
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