Anschar Diamonds Blog

Russia and Botswana once again led the world in rough diamond production in 2024, according to newly released statistics from the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme. But while Russia retained the top spot in both volume and value — despite international sanctions — Namibia stole the spotlight for quality, with the highest average value per carat among major producers.



Russia: Still on Top Despite Headwinds
Russia accounted for 32% of global rough diamond production by volume (37.3 million carats) and 29% by value ($3.335 billion). Though its carat production remained level with 2023, value slipped slightly from $3.61 billion, reflecting a drop in average price per carat from $97 to $89.

Botswana: Impressive Runner-Up
Botswana increased its carat output from 25.1 million in 2023 to 28.2 million in 2024, but its dollar value barely budged ($3.31 billion vs. $3.28 billion), due to its average price per carat declining from $131 to $117. Still, Botswana’s reputation for gem-quality diamonds remains intact, keeping it a close second in both volume and value.

Namibia and Lesotho: Small Producers, Big Prices
Namibia produced just 2.3 million carats — ranking #8 by volume — but topped the global list in quality, with an average value of $417 per carat. Though lower than its 2022 peak of $601, the figure reflects the ongoing strength of Namibia’s offshore mining sector. Lesotho followed closely with $333 per carat. With fewer than 700,000 carats mined, the country still earned $232 million — good for #7 in value rankings.

Angola and Canada: Solid Mid-Tier Players
Angola remained #3 in value ($1.412 billion) on the strength of its high-grade rough, as volume stood at 14 million carats. At $101 per carat, Angola’s rough output continues to trend toward higher-quality goods. Canada ranked #4 by volume (13.3 million carats) and #4 in value ($1.075 billion), although its average price per carat dropped to $81 from $111 in 2022.

South Africa and Sierra Leone: Heritage and Promise
South Africa, once the epicenter of the global diamond industry, ranked #6 in volume (5.3 million carats) and #6 in value ($662 million). Its diamonds fetched a respectable $124 per carat — above average and consistent with its long-standing reputation for producing large, high-quality stones. Though its output has declined from historic highs, South Africa remains a steady contributor of gem-grade material.

Sierra Leone, meanwhile, barely made the Top 10 in both volume (573,983 carats) and value ($103 million). However, its $180-per-carat average ranks third globally — behind only Namibia and Lesotho. This speaks to the enduring value of its artisanal and small-scale mining operations, which occasionally yield extraordinary finds.

Zimbabwe and the DRC: High Volume, Low Value
Zimbabwe produced 5.3 million carats, valued at $163 million, for an average of just $31 per carat. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) followed a similar pattern with 9.8 million carats but only $106 million in value — a mere $11 per carat — indicating a continued focus on industrial-grade stones.

Total global rough output in 2024 was 118 million carats, up 6% from 2023. However, overall value fell 10% year-over-year to $11.48 billion. Only 10 countries accounted for over 99% of all diamond production, a testament to the industry’s geographic concentration.

While Russia and Botswana dominate the conversation, the 2024 data underscores how value and quality can shift the narrative, as seen with the high per-carat performances of Namibia and Lesotho.

Credit: Image of rough diamonds mined in Russia, courtesy of Alrosa.

In celebration of July’s birthstone, we look back at one of the most iconic ruby jewels ever to hit the auction block: Hollywood icon Elizabeth Taylor’s "perfect" 8.24-carat gem that actor Richard Burton gave her as a Christmas gift in 1968.



Burton, who famously showered Taylor with extraordinary jewels, promised early in their relationship to find her a very special ruby with perfect red color.

“But it has to be perfect,” he warned.



Four years later, he delivered on that promise with a Van Cleef & Arpels masterpiece nestled in a box at the bottom of her Christmas stocking.

Taylor recalled nearly overlooking the teeny package, only to be reminded by her daughter Liza that something special was still waiting to be unwrapped. When she opened the box, she found a rich Burmese ruby surrounded by diamonds.

“It was the most perfect colored stone I’d ever seen,” Taylor later said.

Auction bidders clearly shared her sentiment. When Taylor’s legendary jewelry collection was sold by Christie’s after her passing in 2011, the ruby ring fetched $4.2 million — more than quadrupling its high estimate. It also set a world record at the time for highest price-per-carat ever paid for a ruby: $512,925.

(The current world record for the most expensive ruby per carat is held by the "Estrela de Fura," a 55.22-carat Mozambique ruby that sold for $34.8 million at the Sotheby's "Magnificent Jewels" auction in New York on June 8, 2023. This price paid translated to $630,288 per carat.)



Another ruby treasure in Taylor's collection — a Cartier necklace featuring seven oval and cushion-cut rubies with diamond accents — also stunned auction watchers in 2011. Initially estimated at $300,000, the necklace soared to a final price of $3.8 million.

Taylor’s entire collection of 80 iconic pieces netted $115.9 million, setting multiple records at the time, including highest price ever paid for a pearl jewel ($11.8 million), highest price paid per carat for a colorless diamond ($8.8 million), highest price ever paid for an Indian jewel ($8.8 million), highest price paid for an emerald jewel ($6.6 million), and the highest price paid for natural pearl earrings ($1.9 million).

For those born in July, the ruby remains a symbol of passion, love and vitality — qualities Taylor embodied both on screen and in life. Her ruby ring continues to stand as a dazzling reminder of love’s promise… and of the enduring power of a truly perfect gemstone.

Credits: Jewelry images courtesy of Christie's. Elizabeth Taylor promotional headshot by Unknown authorUnknown author Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer studio publicity photographer, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons. Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor from the film Cleopatra by Trailer screenshot, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons.

Amid a broader slowdown in US luxury spending, fine jewelry has emerged as a glimmering standout, according to a new report from Citigroup. Based on credit card transaction data from more than 10 million US cardholders, Citi found that while spending on luxury goods overall fell in the first five months of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, luxury jewelry sales have continued to rise.



In May alone, luxury jewelry spending surged 10.1% year over year, continuing a monthly growth trend that began in September 2024. In contrast, categories such as handbags and apparel saw declines, weighed down by rising prices and waning consumer enthusiasm.

Citi analyst Thomas Chauvet told CNBC that the durability of jewelry sales likely reflects a shift in consumer values.

“When you have $3,000 to spend on luxury, are you going to buy a piece of jewelry or a handbag for the same price?” he asked. “Perhaps the piece of jewelry gives you superior intrinsic value given the precious metals content and superior emotional value and meaning.”

While luxury handbag brands have raised prices by as much as 30% to 40% since the pandemic — often without delivering clear improvements — jewelry appears to offer both financial and sentimental rewards. Chauvet noted that gold prices have risen more than 25% in 2025, yet many jewelers have kept price increases modest. That combination is making jewelry look like a smarter investment.

Jewelry was also the only luxury category in May to see an increase not just in average spend per customer but also in the number of customers overall. Even within the high-end segment — where a 2.7% drop in customer count was recorded — those who remained spent 11.7% more on average.

Looking ahead, Chauvet cautioned that economic uncertainties remain—from a weakening US dollar to geopolitical tensions and the possible expiration of a 90-day pause on new tariffs.

Still, the data suggests that in uncertain times, consumers are gravitating toward purchases with lasting value — both emotional and financial. And jewelry fits the bill.

Credit: Photo by BigStockPhoto.com.

Fancy-color diamonds have appreciated a stunning 205% in value since 2005, according to a new report from the Natural Diamond Council (NDC).



The inaugural Fancy Color Diamond Report, produced in collaboration with Choron Group and the Fancy Color Research Foundation (FCRF), attributes this meteoric rise to a combination of extreme scarcity, strong collector demand and growing recognition of colored diamonds as enduring investment pieces.

Leading the surge are pink diamonds, which have increased nearly 394% in value since 2005, followed by blue diamonds (up 242%) and yellow diamonds (up nearly 50%). Overall, fancy color diamonds have appreciated at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.7% over the past two decades, according to the FCRF.

“Fancy color diamonds are the ultimate expression of passion, desire, personal style and enduring value,” said NDC CEO David Kellie. “No two are ever the same. We're not talking about just jewels, we're talking about a vibrant legacy of Earth's ultimate power and beauty.”

This colorful segment of the diamond market — accounting for just 0.01% of all diamonds mined — continues to dazzle at major auctions. This June, Christie's New York sold the storied Marie-Thérèse Pink, a 10.38-carat gem with ties to French royalty, for nearly $14 million, doubling its estimate.

One of the most buzzworthy auctions in recent memory came in 2022, when the Mediterranean Blue, a 10.03-carat fancy vivid blue diamond, sold for $21.4 million at Sotheby’s Geneva, translating to $2.1 million per carat. Auction houses now regularly feature full rainbows of fancy color diamonds, underscoring their collectible allure.

To highlight this fascination, the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History in Washington, DC, is currently showcasing the Winston Red Diamond and 40 other fancy color diamonds in a new exhibit.

Gifted by Ronald Winston, son of famed jeweler Harry Winston, the 2.33-carat Winston Red is among the rarest known, bearing the GIA’s coveted “Fancy Red” designation — an honor given to fewer than one in 25 million diamonds. The display offers a once-in-a-lifetime view of nature’s most spectacular palette, from deep teal to rich canary yellow.

The NDC report also pinpoints the key origins of these rare gems, with discoveries primarily in Botswana, South Africa, Sierra Leone, Australia and Canada. A recent extraordinary purple diamond uncovered at Canada’s Diavik mine only heightens excitement in a market already fueled by celebrity buzz and runway glamour.

With such exceptional rarity, striking beauty and historical significance, fancy-color diamonds continue to captivate connoisseurs, collectors, jewelers and gem lovers alike.

Credit: Image courtesy of the Natural Diamond Council.

A major new publication is set to dazzle the jewelry world this fall. The Jewelry Book, edited by noted jewelry expert and author Melanie Grant, offers a sweeping, visually rich encyclopedia of the most influential names in jewelry over the past 200 years.



Arranged alphabetically from Adler to Zendaya, the book features legends such as Cartier, Boucheron, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Bulgari, alongside avant-garde artists and contemporary influencers like Gabby Elan Jewelry, which is known for creating custom grills for Rihanna and Marc Jacobs. In all, the 328-page publication highlights 300 artists, designers, collectors, icons and luxury houses who have shaped — and continue to shape — the global jewelry landscape.

Grant worked with a 17-member international advisory panel to curate a list that balances geographic diversity, gender representation and historical impact. The result is a wide-ranging compilation, featuring not only household names, such as Elizabeth Taylor and Josephine Baker, but also lesser-known figures such as Hopi artist Charles Loloma, Māori jade carver Joel Marsters and pioneering Black metalsmith Winifred Mason Chenet.

Choosing the final 300 from a long list of more than 700 wasn’t easy.

In discussing the role of her advisory panel, Grant told The New York Times, “I tried to get a mix of people who had different opinions about what is important and who should be in it... You need to have people who don’t agree with you telling you why.”

The Jewelry Book doesn’t just tell the stories behind the sparkle — it presents them in high style. The hardcover edition boasts a metallic, faceted cover meant to resemble a cut gemstone and includes imagery from renowned photographers, such as Irving Penn and Juergen Teller. Each entry is paired with a large-format image and a concise, compelling write-up.

The New York Times reported that, timed with the book's September 24 release, select pieces featured in the book will be showcased at free exhibitions at Sotheby’s New York (Sept. 10–21) and Elisabetta Cipriani Gallery in London (Sept. 22–27).

Lavish, scholarly and endlessly browsable, The Jewelry Book, published by Phaidon, is poised to become a definitive reference for collectors, professionals and jewelry lovers alike.

Credit: Book image via phaidon.com.

NFL star Deshaun Watson and model-author Jilly Anais tied the knot in dazzling style on July 3 in Miami with an opulent celebration that put diamonds front and center. The couple showcased matching wedding bands with a combined total of more than 50 carats — custom creations that are already making waves across social media and the jewelry world.



Designed by luxury jeweler Vikar Ahmed, Watson’s band features more than 34 carats of D-color, internally flawless emerald-cut diamonds. The Cleveland Browns quarterback flashed the ice-packed ring on TikTok alongside his new bride, who wore a matching 16-carat diamond band. Both rings were made in Germany and reflect, according to Ahmed, “the pinnacle of craftsmanship.”

“These wedding bands not only symbolize an unbreakable commitment to love, but also embody perfection in craftsmanship,” Ahmed told TMZ Sports. “Together, they represent radiant brilliance and extraordinary artistry.”

The groom’s ring is estimated to be worth between $1.1 million and $1.3 million, while Anais’s band is valued between $500,000 and $650,000. But beyond the price tags, the coordination of the couple’s jewelry reveals a deeper design narrative: Anais’ band is a flawless complement to her show-stopping engagement ring, also designed by Ahmed and famously dubbed “The Glory Treasure.”



That engagement ring — boasting a massive emerald-cut center stone with a diamond band totaling over 20 carats — made headlines earlier this year with an estimated value exceeding $2 million. The continuity between Anais’ engagement ring and her new wedding band reflects the couple’s keen attention to detail and dedication to timeless elegance.

In their wedding-day TikTok, the couple joyfully displayed their sparkling ring fingers while still dressed in their formalwear. Anais’ caption simply read, “July 3, 2025 [diamond ring emoji],” confirming the date of their nuptials.

The Miami ceremony was an intimate affair. Eschewing a traditional wedding party, the couple selected their brothers as best man and man of honor. Afterward, the newlyweds jetted off to the South of France for a honeymoon planned entirely by Watson.

In an interview with SI Swimsuit, Anais said of the romantic getaway, “I’m still on cloud nine.”

From touchdown passes to high jewelry, Watson and Anais continue to capture attention with rings that radiate star power.

Watson is expected to start the 2025 NFL season on the Reserve/Physically Unable to Perform list due to an Achilles injury. He underwent surgery in January to repair a torn Achilles tendon and will miss a significant portion of the season.

Credits: Wedding images via TikTok / jillyanais. Engagement images via Instagram / Deshaun Watson.

A Florida couple’s road trip turned into a dazzling dream come true when they discovered a 3.36-carat white diamond at Arkansas’ Crater of Diamonds State Park while wet sifting just their third bucket of soil.



Scott and Jennifer Freitas of New Port Richey made the remarkable find on July 1 during a long-anticipated visit to the only diamond-producing site in the world where the public can search and keep what they discover.



The couple, avid rockhounds who frequently hunt for rubies, sapphires and smoky quartz, had added the Murfreesboro, AR, park to their travel bucket list after hearing about it on the nationally syndicated Bobby Bones Show.

Jennifer, who holds a geology degree, was especially excited to visit. The couple arrived at the 37 1/2-acre search field at 8:30 am, eager to try their luck. After collecting a few buckets of soil at a depth of only 6 to 8 inches, they began the task of wet sifting — a popular and highly effective method where visitors wash dirt away in water troughs and sort through the remaining gravel for gems.

“This isn’t like mining for rubies; we may end up walking away empty-handed,” Jennifer remarked early on. But on their third bucket, the couple’s fortunes changed.

Scott pulled a screen from the water and immediately spotted a sparkling stone.

“Hey, I think I have one!” he called out.

“Oh yeah, right,” Jennifer joked in reply.

But upon closer inspection, even she was stunned.



They took their find to the park’s identification center, where staff confirmed it was indeed a 3.36-carat white diamond — crystal clear at the center with off-white edges, and roughly the size of a blueberry.

“I was stunned when I saw the pictures of the diamond,” said Park Superintendent Caleb Howell. “The shape, clarity, color and size made it a beautifully natural gemstone. It was a great reminder of the awesomeness of Crater of Diamonds State Park.”

The Freitas named the gem the "Dash Diamond," in honor of their beloved dog. It’s the second-largest diamond registered at the park so far in 2025. This year's top find remains the 3.81-carat “Duke Diamond,” also named after a canine companion.

The park has seen a total of 332 diamonds registered this year. Since diamonds were first discovered at the site in 1906, more than 75,000 have been unearthed — making it a glittering destination for gem lovers around the world.

Credits: Photos courtesy of Crater of Diamonds State Park.

Welcome to Music Friday, when we spotlight classic songs that sparkle with references to jewelry, gemstones or precious metals. Today, we turn back the clock to 1977 and Don Williams’ chart-topping hit, “I’m Just a Country Boy.” It’s a tender ballad about love, humility and the kind of riches that can't be bought in a store.



In the song, Williams sings about a young man who falls for the prettiest girl in town, but doubts he can win her over. Why? She likes the finer things and he is struggling to make ends meet.

“I ain’t gonna marry in the fall / I ain’t gonna marry in the spring,” he sings. “’Cause I’m in love with a pretty little girl / Who wears a diamond ring.”

Instead of fine jewelry, all he can offer her is a devoted heart and an appreciation for life’s natural beauty.

He sings, "I never could afford / A store-bought ring / With a sparkling diamond stone / All I could afford / Is a loving heart / The only one I own / ‘Cause I’m just a country boy / Money have I none / But I’ve got silver in the stars / And gold in the mornin’ sun / Gold in the mornin’ sun…"

“I’m Just a Country Boy” appeared as the opening track on Williams’ Country Boy album and went on to top the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. While Don Williams made the song famous, it was originally recorded by Harry Belafonte in 1954. Over the years, it’s been covered by a wide range of artists, from Jim Croce and Roger Whittaker to The Brothers Four and Bobby Vinton.

The song was penned by Fred Hellerman — best known as a founding member of The Weavers — and Marshall Barer, who also penned the theme song ("Here I come to save the day!") for the Mighty Mouse cartoons.

Williams, known as the “Gentle Giant” for his soft-spoken style and soothing baritone, racked up 17 #1 hits over his career and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2010. He passed away in 2017 at age 78.

Trivia: Williams appeared as himself and played a number of songs in Smokey and the Bandit II (1980).

Be sure to check out the video of Williams performing “I’m Just a Country Boy.” The lyrics are below if you'd like to sing along with this gem of a tune…

“I’m Just A Country Boy”
Written by Marshall Barer and Fred Kellerman. Performed by Don Williams.

I ain’t gonna marry in the fall
I ain’t gonna marry in the spring
‘Cause I’m in love with a pretty little girl
Who wears a diamond ring.

And I’m just a country boy
Money have I none
But I’ve got silver in the stars
Gold in the mornin’ sun
Gold in the mornin’ sun.

Never gonna kiss
The ruby red lips
Of the prettiest girl in town
Never gonna ask her if she’d
Marry me
I know she’d turn me down.

‘Cause I’m just a country boy
Money have I none
But I’ve got silver in the stars
And gold in the mornin’ sun
Gold in the mornin’ sun.

I never could afford
A store-bought ring
With a sparkling diamond stone
All I could afford
Is a loving heart
The only one I own.

‘Cause I’m just a country boy
Money have I none
But I’ve got silver in the stars
And gold in the mornin’ sun
Gold in the mornin’ sun…



Credit: Screen capture via YouTube / Don Williams.

TV personality Kelly Osbourne is officially engaged — and her stunning new ring is as sweet as its inspiration. Musician Sid Wilson, best known as the turntablist for Slipknot, proposed to Osbourne on July 5 backstage at Black Sabbath’s final concert, a milestone event for her father, Ozzy Osbourne. But it’s the symbolic design of the ring that has captured the jewelry world’s attention.



The custom creation was crafted by luxury jeweler Mouawad in collaboration with Wilson, who wanted the ring to reflect his personal nickname for Kelly: “Honeybee.” The result is a one-of-a-kind engagement ring that intertwines sentimentality with masterful artistry.



Set in 18-karat yellow gold, the ring features a brilliant 2.5-carat round white diamond, symbolizing unity and enduring love. Surrounding the center stone is a honeycomb-inspired design, intricately detailed with white and yellow diamonds, citrine accents, and diamond clusters that evoke the whimsical image of bees buzzing around a hive. The wide bezel setting adds a bold, modern touch while enhancing the ring’s beehive motif.



Wilson explained in a Mouawad video shared on Instagram that his inspiration came naturally.

“Kelly would buzz around and spread this good energy, like a bee,” he said, adding that he later discovered the late Joan Rivers, Kelly’s close friend and former Fashion Police co-host, also called her “Honeybee.” Wilson described the coincidence as “meant to be.”

Pascal Mouawad, Co-Guardian of the House of Mouawad, worked closely with Wilson to bring the vision to life.

“It was about more than just creating a ring — it was about capturing Kelly and Sid’s unique love story in a wearable piece of art,” Mouawad said.

When Wilson first saw the completed ring, he was visibly emotional. “It’s more than perfect. It’s like a fairytale,” he said in the behind-the-scenes video.

Kelly echoed that sentiment when she shared a video of the proposal on Instagram, writing, “Nothing means more to me than the thought and effort that went into this ring.”

The couple, who have known each other since first meeting during Ozzfest in 1999, began dating in 2022 and welcomed their son, Sidney, later that year. Now, with their engagement sealed by this deeply symbolic ring, Osbourne and Wilson are embracing the next chapter of their love story.

Credits: Engagement ring photo via mouawad.com. Jewelry screen captures via Instagram.com / mouawad. Screenshot of Osbourne via Instagram / kellyosbourne.

There’s no place like Liberal, KS — especially now, with the unveiling of the “Dorothy’s Slipper Slide,” a whimsical new roadside attraction celebrating the town’s cherished connection to The Wizard of Oz. On July 11, city leaders held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially open the 10-foot-tall slide, modeled after the iconic ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland in the 1939 film classic.



Located outside the Liberal Tourist Information Center at 1 Yellow Brick Road, the giant glittering slipper stretches 18 feet long and is designed for both children and adults to enjoy. The attraction was custom-made in Baltimore and transported to Liberal, where it now sparkles alongside the busy Highway 54 corridor in southwest Kansas, just above the Oklahoma panhandle. City officials expect it to become a must-stop photo op for travelers and Wizard of Oz fans alike.

“We see this roadside attraction as something that’s going to be a real show stopper,” Keeley Moree, Chief Communications Officer for the City of Liberal, told KSNW. “When people come to Kansas, there are two things that they want to see. It’s cowboys and it’s Dorothy.”

Liberal’s dedication to Dorothy Gale is long-standing. The city is home to Dorothy’s House and the Land of Oz exhibit, which features a replica of Dorothy’s farmhouse and a guided tour through an interactive Oz experience. Now, with the addition of the Slipper Slide, visitors can add a playful moment to their journey along the Yellow Brick Road.



The slide also pays homage to one of the most famous — and valuable — pieces of movie memorabilia ever created. Only four pairs of the original ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz are known to survive. One pair remains on display at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, where it continues to draw millions of visitors each year. Another pair shattered auction records in December 2024 when it sold at Heritage Auctions for $32.5 million, making it the most expensive piece of movie memorabilia ever sold.

Conceived by MGM’s chief costume designer Gilbert Adrian, the original slippers feature nearly 2,300 sequins per shoe and butterfly-shaped bows adorned with red bugle beads and rhinestones. Though Adrian originally intended to use actual bugle beads for the entire slipper, he opted for lighter sequins to capture the ruby red sparkle — perfect for Technicolor.

Thanks to Kansas Tourism grants and local funding, Liberal’s oversized slipper now welcomes visitors to slide into a bit of that magic themselves — no clicking heels required.

Credits: Image of Dorothy's Slipper Slide courtesy of Adventure Solutions. Image of Dorothy's actual Ruby Slippers at the Smithsonian by The Jeweler Blog.

Tennis star Tommy Paul and style influencer Paige Lorenze are officially engaged after nearly three years of dating — and the ring is definitely a head-turner. Paul, currently ranked No. 16 on the ATP Tour, popped the question this past Sunday, July 13, on the shores of Nantucket with a showstopping, 8-carat emerald-cut diamond ring.



The couple announced their engagement via a joint Instagram post that immediately caught the attention of fans and the jewelry industry alike. The carousel of photos included a romantic beachside embrace and a close-up of Lorenze’s new ring — a dazzling diamond on a simple platinum setting. The post, simply captioned “forever [heart emoji],” captured the understated elegance of the moment.



According to industry sources, Lorenze’s emerald-cut diamond boasts a top-tier D–F color and VVS clarity. The sleek cut — a favorite of Art Deco aficionados — reflects both vintage glamor and modern minimalism. The diamond is mounted in a platinum prong setting, a design choice that allows maximum light to pass through the stone’s step-cut facets, giving it that signature "hall-of-mirrors" effect. Experts estimate the ring’s value at approximately $600,000.

The proposal, though private, unfolded against a picturesque Nantucket backdrop. (Nantucket is an upscale destination off the coast of Massachusetts, near Cape Cod.) Lorenze, the founder of lifestyle brand Dairy Boy, and Paul celebrated their engagement with friends at CRU Oyster Bar, enjoying caviar cones, lobster rolls and a selection of fine wines.



Paul, 28, and Lorenze, 27, first met at the 2022 US Open and made their relationship public later that year. Since then, Lorenze has frequently been spotted courtside at Paul’s matches, supporting his rise through tennis’s elite ranks. The couple has openly shared their mutual admiration, from cheering each other on professionally to cooking meals with friends and enjoying downtime together.

Lorenze has more than one million followers on Instagram, so we're expecting that her new emerald-cut diamond ring is sure to inspire a new wave of interest in classic cuts with contemporary flair.

Credits: Photos via Instagram / paigelorenze.

On July 13 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, Chelsea Football Club made history as the first team to hoist the newly designed FIFA Club World Cup Trophy — a spectacular 24-karat gold-plated creation designed by FIFA and crafted in collaboration with global luxury jeweler Tiffany & Co. Chelsea’s 3-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the final capped an epic month-long tournament and ushered in a new era for international club soccer.



The 2025 edition of the FIFA Club World Cup was the first to feature 32 teams, prompting FIFA to commission a trophy that matched the event’s expanded scale and ambition. Tiffany & Co., with its 160-year legacy of crafting some of the world’s most iconic sports trophies, rose to the challenge. The result is a groundbreaking design that merges artistry, history and advanced technology.

The trophy stands approximately 17.3 inches tall (44 centimeters) and weighs nearly 11 pounds (5 kilograms). Crafted from a blend of sterling silver and 18-karat gold with a 24-karat gold-plated finish, the trophy reflects both durability and prestige.

Its most innovative feature is a transformable design that allows the trophy to shift from a shield-like form into a multifaceted, orbital structure — a nod to space exploration and the global nature of the sport.

Inspired by the Voyager Golden Records sent into space in the 1970s, the trophy is inscribed with the names of all 211 FIFA member nations and the six continental confederations. Additional engravings appear in 13 languages and Braille, reinforcing the tournament’s spirit of inclusivity. Celestial symbols mark the positions of the planets at key historical moments in the organization's history: FIFA’s founding on May 21, 1904, and the opening match of the 2025 Club World Cup in Miami.

The intricate craftsmanship took months to complete and combined precision mechanics with the expertise of Swiss watchmaking. Tiffany & Co. President and CEO Anthony Ledru called the trophy “the next chapter in our long history of creating the world’s most revered symbols of athletic achievement.”

The following message to the current and future champions is engraved on the trophy: “To those who hold this trophy, history belongs to you! You are witness to a moment in time that represents the pinnacle of club football, bestowed upon few but celebrated by many.”

Each Club World Cup championship team will get to keep a replica trophy featuring an engraving of the club's emblem and the year of the triumph. The original trophy, estimated to be worth $250,000, will reside at FIFA's New York headquarters.

Credit: Image courtesy of FIFA.

Welcome to Music Friday, our weekly feature that highlights songs with jewelry, gemstones or precious metals in the lyrics or title. Today, we’re revisiting Tracy Byrd’s 1997 hit, "Don’t Love Make a Diamond Shine," a country tune that reminds us it’s not the size or value of the diamond that matters — it’s the love behind it.



In this heartfelt track, Byrd introduces us to Tommy and Janey, a young couple shopping for an engagement ring. As they peer into the jewelry case, a modest diamond catches Tommy’s eye. For them, the moment is perfect — not because of the carat weight or price tag, but because of the commitment it symbolizes.

Byrd sings, “Mister bring it closer, mister can we hold it / I think it’s gonna fit just fine / As he slipped it on her hand, Janey kissed her man / Don’t love make a diamond shine?”

The song emphasizes that any diamond — whether massive or modest — radiates a special brilliance when it’s given in love. Byrd contrasts this with a wealthy couple whose 15-carat gem looks “duller than dirt” because their relationship is crumbling.

"Don’t Love Make a Diamond Shine" was written by hitmakers Mike Dekle and Craig Wiseman. It was released as the third single from Byrd’s fourth studio album, Big Love, which became his third gold-certified record. The song reached #17 on the US Billboard Country Songs chart and climbed to #13 on Canada’s Country Tracks chart.

Born in Vidor, TX, Byrd got his start in music while attending Southwest Texas State University. After impressing a recording studio owner with a rendition of Hank Williams’ "Your Cheatin' Heart," Byrd found himself entered into a local talent competition. That contest eventually led to a recording contract with MCA Records in 1992.

Since then, Byrd has become one of country music’s most recognizable voices, charting 33 singles, including #1 Country hits "Holdin’ Heaven" and "Ten Rounds with Jose Cuervo." His catalog also features favorites, such as "Watermelon Crawl" and "The Truth About Men." Byrd has released 10 studio albums and continues to tour extensively.

Fans can catch him live in 2025 at venues across the U.S., including stops in New York, Oklahoma, Texas, Washington, Kansas, Iowa, Colorado and Nevada.

Be sure to check out the audio track of Byrd’s "Don’t Love Make a Diamond Shine." The lyrics are below if you’d like to sing along!

“Don’t Love Make A Diamond Shine”
Written by Craig Wiseman and Mike Dekle. Performed by Tracy Byrd.

Tommy and Janey barely 18
Holding hands at the jewelry store
Eyes open wide staring inside
At the ring that they wanted for her

Mister bring it closer, mister can we hold it
I think it’s gonna fit just fine
As he slipped it on her hand, Janey kissed her man
Don’t love make a diamond shine?

Don’t love make a diamond shine?
It don’t matter if it costs a dime
Dang thing looks like a million bucks
Sittin’ on the hand of a girl in love.

A perfect 15 carat is duller than dirt
If the heart don’t wear it
With three little words it’ll knock you blind
Don’t love make a diamond shine?

There’s a rich lady with a new Mercedes
Livin’ up in a highrise
She’s got a big ol’ rock on her left hand
That looks cheaper than a Cracker Jack prize.

‘Cause her man don’t know that it ain’t the dough
No all he needs to spend is time
And that big marquis’d be a laser beam
Don’t love make a diamond shine?

Don’t love make a diamond shine?
It don’t matter if it costs a dime
Dang thing looks like a million bucks
Sittin’ on the hand of a girl in love.

A perfect 15 carat is duller than dirt
If the heart don’t wear it
With three little words it’ll knock you blind
Don’t love make a diamond shine?

Don’t love make a diamond shine?
It don’t matter if it costs a dime
Dang thing looks like a million bucks
Sittin’ on the hand of a girl in love.

A perfect 15 carat is duller than dirt
If the heart don’t wear it
With three little words it’ll knock you blind
Don’t love make a diamond shine?

Don’t love make a diamond shine?



Credit: Photo by Republic Country Club, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

The Philadelphia Eagles capped off their historic 2024 season in grand fashion on Friday night, as players, coaches and staff received their Super Bowl LIX Championship Rings during a private ceremony in Philadelphia. Designed by Jason of Beverly Hills, the rings are a dazzling tribute to the Eagles’ 40-22 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs and the remarkable season that led them there. They're also the first championship rings with pop-out wings.



Weighing more than a quarter pound and measuring 1 1/2 inches across, the massive white gold rings feature a jaw-dropping 12 carats of diamonds and lab-created green sapphires. Beyond their impressive size, the rings' innovative design features and symbolism help set them apart from past championship bling.

For the first time in Super Bowl history, a championship ring includes a special button-activated mechanism that reveals a hidden message. By pressing the diamond-encrusted button at the top of the ring, two wings release from the bezel, displaying the inscription: "YOU CAN'T BE GREAT WITHOUT THE GREATNESS OF OTHERS." This quote from head coach Nick Sirianni served as a unifying mantra for the Eagles throughout their Super Bowl-winning campaign.

Each design element of the ring tells part of the Eagles’ championship story. The wings that open via the button are adorned with 0.9 carats of diamonds, symbolizing the Eagles’ six sacks and three takeaways in one of the most dominant defensive performances in Super Bowl history. The five diamonds on the button itself represent the five Eagles who scored in Super Bowl LIX: Jalen Hurts, A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, Cooper DeJean and kicker Jake Elliott.



On the face of the ring, the Eagles logo stands proudly in front of two Lombardi Trophies, representing the franchise’s two Super Bowl titles under owner Jeffrey Lurie. Surrounding the logo are 145 diamonds, commemorating the Eagles’ record-setting 145 playoff points. The phrase “WORLD CHAMPIONS” is spelled out with 40 diamonds, honoring the 40 points scored in the title game.



On the players' side of the ring, players' last names are featured with their jersey numbers, encrusted in diamonds, against the backdrop of Lincoln Financial Field, paying homage to the dedicated fan base.

On the team side of the ring, the Super Bowl LIX logo is centered between the Eagles wordmark and the score of 40-22 from the game. Ten points of diamonds in the Super Bowl LIX logo signify the Eagles' franchise-record 10-game winning streak in the regular season, which put the team on path for a historic run towards the Vince Lombardi Trophy.



Each player's unique signature is showcased on the bottom of the ring, while the inside of the ring highlights a Brazilian flag — a nod to the Eagles’ season-opening win in São Paulo, the NFL's first game in South America. The inside also lists the scores of all four playoff games and displays Sirianni’s core values: “TOUGH, DETAILED, TOGETHER.” The boxed number 145 is the combined point total for the team's four wins.

"Our Super Bowl LIX Championship Ring represents the commitment, determination and sacrifice of every member of our organization who helped deliver another World Championship for Eagles fans everywhere," said Jeffrey Lurie, Chairman and CEO, Philadelphia Eagles. "It will forever serve as a reminder of just how magical the 2024 season was for our organization and fans."

Credits: Images courtesy of Jason of Beverly Hills.

Perhaps the noble traveler tossed it into the moat in a fit of rage. Or maybe it slipped unnoticed from her silk-clad shoulder as she crossed the timber bridge. Whatever the reason, a 600-year-old aristocratic jewel has recently emerged from the muddy moat of Castle Kolno in Poland, offering modern archaeologists a glittering glimpse into medieval luxury, status and symbolism.



The remarkable find — a vibrant amethyst set in fire-gilded silver — was likely part of an ornate brooch or, less likely, a coronet. Its design features a cabochon amethyst cradled in a cone-shaped claw setting, surrounded by a delicate halo of openwork rays or palmette petals. Traces of lead solder and a silver pin on the back suggest it once adorned a larger piece of ceremonial jewelry.

While medieval jewels are usually unearthed in tombs or hidden hoards, this discovery stands out for its everyday context. Archaeologists from the University of Wrocław, led by Lech Marek and Beata Miazga, found the piece during excavations of Castle Kolno’s moat sediments, nestled between the remains of 14th-century timber bridge posts.

Built in the early 13th century, Castle Kolno once guarded a customs house on the border between the duchies of Opole and Brzeg. By the 15th century, it had become home to wealthy knights before being destroyed during Silesian civil wars in 1443.

To confirm the artifact’s composition, Marek’s team employed advanced technology, including Raman spectroscopy — a laser-based method that identifies minerals by analyzing their molecular vibrations. This confirmed the gemstone as amethyst.

The metal was analyzed using X-ray fluorescence and scanning electron microscopy, revealing it to be high-quality silver finished with fire gilding —a medieval technique that bonded gold to the surface using mercury, leaving a lustrous gold appearance while saving on costly materials.

The results of Marek and Miazga's study were published online July 11 in the journal Antiquity.

Amethysts held special meaning in the Middle Ages, beyond their aesthetic appeal. According to medieval folklore, they protected wearers from intoxication, venom, treason and even bad dreams. Their rich purple hue symbolized faith, modesty and martyrdom, while in religious and courtly circles, the stone’s mystical qualities were believed to bolster moral virtue and spiritual strength.

The jewel from Castle Kolno was undoubtedly a marker of elite status — what historians call an example of “conspicuous consumption.” Its presence in the moat raises tantalizing questions about how it came to be lost. Was it a simple accident, or a flash of ill temper? For now, the mystery remains as captivating as the jewel itself.

Credits: Images by Lech Marek; CC BY 4.0.

At the height of its power, the Roman Empire stretched across 1.5 million square miles and governed more than 130 million people. Its armies conquered vast territories, its roads crisscrossed continents, and its laws and culture shaped the foundations of Western civilization. Yet, according to historians, one of the most colossal mistakes in Roman history involved something no larger than a modern dime: the denarius.



The denarius — a small silver coin introduced in 211 BCE — was the financial backbone of Rome for centuries. Worth roughly a day’s wages for a skilled worker, it fueled the empire’s trade, paid its soldiers and symbolized economic stability. But by the 3rd century AD, Rome faced a critical problem: it was running out of silver.

Silver mines, particularly in Spain, began to run dry during the reign of Emperor Claudius. Simultaneously, the empire’s appetite for luxury goods from the East created a trade imbalance that drained Rome’s silver reserves even further. Desperate for funds to pay for wars, massive construction projects and the growing military, Roman leaders devised a seemingly simple solution: debase the denarius.

By reducing the silver content of each coin while keeping its face value the same, emperors could mint more currency without finding new sources of precious metal. Initially, the denarius contained about 4.5 grams of pure silver. But under Emperor Marcus Aurelius, it dropped to 75% silver. By the time of Gallienus in the mid-3rd century, it held as little as 5% silver — sometimes less. A thin silver plating coated a mostly bronze core, and the shine quickly wore off, exposing the debasement to the public.

The consequences were catastrophic. Inflation skyrocketed. Prices rose by 1,000% between 200 and 265 AD. Soldiers, angry at receiving worthless pay, demanded higher wages and bonuses, often in gold. The empire struggled to meet these demands, forcing higher taxes on citizens, which fueled unrest.

As faith in Roman currency eroded, trade collapsed. Local economies abandoned imperial coins, returning to barter systems or creating their own currencies. The once-unified Roman economy fractured into isolated regions, cutting off the lifeblood of commerce.

This economic unraveling coincided with a period of severe political instability known as the Crisis of the Third Century. Over 50 emperors ruled in just 50 years, most meeting violent ends. Plague, invasion and civil war further weakened the empire.

By the time the Western Roman Empire officially fell in 476 AD, the debasement of the denarius was recognized as a key contributor to its downfall. In their quest to stretch a dwindling supply of silver, Roman leaders inadvertently undermined the very foundations of their empire — a cautionary tale of short-term fixes with long-term consequences.

Credit: AI-generated image by The Jeweler Blog using ChatGPT and DALL-E 3.

For the first time in Olympic history, the Winter Games will be co-hosted by two cities— Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo — an unprecedented collaboration beautifully reflected in the newly unveiled medals for the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.



The medals feature a striking design of two interlocking halves, a bold metaphor for unity — not just between the urban sophistication of Milan and the alpine serenity of Cortina, but also between the athletes and the people who support them. The textured and smooth surfaces on either half symbolize this blend of contrast and cooperation: city and mountain, competitor and coach, Paralympic and Olympic values.



Developed by the design team of Milano Cortina 2026, the medals celebrate Italian creativity, elegance and sustainability. Raffaella Paniè, Brand and Identity Director for the Games, described the medals as a “return to essence,” highlighting strength in diversity and the universal story of struggle, support and triumph.

Each medal is handcrafted by the Istituto Poligrafico e Zecca dello Stato (IPZS), Italy’s state mint, using recycled metals from its own production stream and powered entirely by renewable energy. The medals are protected with an eco-friendly, recyclable finish and come in FSC (Forest Stewardship Council)-certified packaging.

Technically, the medals are impressive in their simplicity and symbolism. Measuring 80mm in diameter and 10mm thick, the gold medal weighs 506 grams (1.12 pounds) and consists of 99.9% silver coated in 6 grams of pure gold. The silver medal is made entirely of 99.9% silver and weighs 500 grams, while the bronze medal, made of copper, comes in at 420 grams.

A total of 735 medals — 245 of each type — will be awarded during 195 events at the Olympic Winter Games, scheduled for February 6–22, 2026. An additional 411 medals will be presented during the Paralympic Games, which follow from March 6–16.

The split design resonates far beyond geography. It reflects the journey of every athlete, supported by teammates, families and fans, each one forging their own half of a story that’s only complete when joined by those who stood behind them.

“These medals are much more than mere awards,” said Giovanni Malagò, President of the Milano Cortina 2026 Foundation. “They are the heartbeat of Italy... the reflection of a dream taking shape.”

Credits: Images courtesy of Fondazione Milano Cortina 2026.

Welcome to Music Friday, when we spotlight songs with jewelry, gemstones or precious metals in the title or lyrics. Today we revisit Vince Gill’s heartfelt 2016 ballad, “Like My Daddy Did,” a track that blends emotional storytelling with a sparkling symbol of commitment — a pretty diamond ring.



As Gill celebrates his 50th anniversary tour this summer — marking five decades since he first set out to become a professional musician — it’s the perfect moment to revisit a song that reflects his enduring artistry and deep emotional resonance. In “Like My Daddy Did,” Gill plays the part of a devoted suitor who proposes to the love of his life despite her painful childhood memories.

With his signature tenderness, he sings, “I found a little girl and I fell in love / She shines brighter than the stars above / I bought her a pretty diamond ring / Asked her if she would marry me.”

But the proposal is met with uncertainty. The woman is wary of love, carrying emotional scars from her father’s abandonment.

“Will you treat me like my daddy did?” she asks.

Her father walked out on her and her mother when she was just a child, leaving behind heartbreak and mistrust. Instead of recoiling, Gill’s character responds with understanding and grace. He gently contrasts her experience with his own, offering a reassuring vision of love modeled after his father — a man who was present, supportive and loving.

“I’ll treat you just like my daddy did / He took me fishin’ when I was a kid / When I played ball, he never missed a game,” Gill sings. “There ain’t no scars on this heart of mine.”

The song’s emotional core lies in this contrast — the “yin and yang” of two childhoods, as Gill described it. His character’s persistence and empathy eventually win her over, and the song concludes with a wedding and the hopeful promise of a new beginning: “Together we’re gonna build a bridge / No, I won’t treat ya like your daddy did.”

“Like My Daddy Did” was the fourth track on Down to My Last Bad Habit, Gill’s 14th studio album. With a career spanning 50 years, 22 Grammy Awards, 18 CMA Awards and more than 30 million albums sold, Gill remains one of country music’s most respected voices.

Born in Norman, Oklahoma, in 1957, Gill credits his own father — a part-time musician and full-time judge — with nurturing his passion for music. That influence shines brightly in this deeply personal song.

As Gill embarks on his 50th anniversary tour — which includes a four-night residency at Nashville’s famed Ryman Auditorium — fans can expect a celebration not only of his storied career but of the heartfelt storytelling that has made him a legend.

Please check out the video of Gill performing the acoustic version of “Like My Daddy Did.” The lyrics are below if you’d like to sing along…

“Like My Daddy Did”
Written and performed by Vince Gill.

I found a little girl and I fell in love
She shines brighter than the stars above
I bought her a pretty diamond ring
Asked her if she would marry me

She said, will you treat me like my daddy did
Left me and momma, I was just a kid
He took off runnin’, I never saw his face again
So, when it comes to love, I ain’t the trustin’ kind
There’s a whole lotta scars on this heart of mine
I’m crazy about ya, I’m not sure I can

I took that pretty girl by the hand
I looked her in her eyes and said I understand
There’s nothing you could tell me that would change a thing
I still want you to wear my ring

I’ll treat you just like my daddy did
He took me fishin’ when I was a kid
When I played ball, he never missed a game
So, when it comes to love, I’m the trusting kind
There ain’t no scars on this heart of mine
I’m crazy about ya, I’m pretty sure I can

Tomorrow morning is our wedding day
And all your fears are gonna fade away
Together we’re gonna build a bridge
No, I won’t treat ya like your daddy did
We’ll have the kind of love that’s the trustin' kind
I’ll give you ever piece of this heart of mine
We were meant to be, I’m pretty sure we can

I found a little girl and I fell in love
She shines brighter than the stars above



Credit: Photo by Derek Russell, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

NBA All-Star Tyrese Haliburton may have missed out on a championship ring this past season, but he made up for it with an unforgettable piece of jewelry — an oval-shaped diamond engagement ring for his longtime girlfriend, Jade Jones.



Just five weeks after undergoing surgery to repair a torn Achilles, the Indiana Pacers point guard proposed to his college sweetheart at the Hilton Coliseum, the basketball arena at Iowa State University where their love story began. The couple has been together since 2019, when Haliburton played for the Cyclones and Jones cheered on the sidelines.



Haliburton went all out for the moment, adorning the gym with glowing “WILL YOU MARRY ME” letters, red rose petals and floating candles before gingerly getting down on one knee.

A clunky medical boot and a mobility scooter can be seen in photos shared to Haliburton's Instagram page. The clutch player was a leading candidate for the NBA Finals MVP, but suffered a devastating torn Achilles in the first quarter of Game 7 against the Oklahoma Thunder.



Jones’s new 18-karat yellow gold engagement ring features a large oval-cut center diamond, flanked by smaller diamonds on the band and a hidden halo for added brilliance. The modern-meets-classic design has become a favorite among celebrity brides-to-be. The elongated oval shape flatters the finger, while its brilliance offers a high-carat look without overwhelming the hand.

Eagle-eyed fans noticed Jones was wearing a silicone ring adjuster in one closeup engagement photo posted to Instagram. The coil-style adjuster temporarily shrinks the band’s interior diameter and is often used when a ring needs resizing — something we suspect will happen once the excitement dies down.



Oval-shaped diamond rings are having a moment in Hollywood and with the general public. A recent study by The Knot revealed that, while round is still the most popular shape for a center stone (34%), the oval shape (preferred by 23%) has been trending up.

Despite his injury setback, Haliburton remains optimistic about the future, stating on Instagram, “Watch how I come back from this.”

And while he’ll sit out the 2025–2026 NBA season to recover, he and Jones will have plenty of time to plan a wedding.

Credits: Images via Instagram / Tyrese Haliburton.

In Hellenistic Egypt more than 2,000 years ago, alchemists began their fabled quest to turn mercury into gold. Today, a California-based startup believes it may have finally cracked the code — using the power of nuclear fusion.



Marathon Fusion, a company developing next-generation fusion technology, has outlined a bold plan to create gold as a byproduct of clean energy generation. According to a newly released (and yet-to-be peer-reviewed) study, their reactor design could transmute mercury-198 — an abundant isotope — into gold-197, the stable form of the precious metal. (Gold and mercury happen to be next-door neighbors on the Periodic Table of Chemical Elements.)

The process takes place inside a tokamak fusion reactor, where ultra-hot plasma fuses hydrogen atoms to release vast amounts of energy. Typically, reactors are lined with lithium in what’s called a breeding blanket, designed to help generate tritium fuel.

But Marathon’s twist? Replace part of that blanket with a mercury-lithium alloy, which not only supports fusion fuel production but also absorbs high-energy neutrons. Those neutrons trigger a chain reaction that converts mercury-198 into unstable mercury-197, which decays into gold-197 within days.

In simulations, Marathon estimated that one gigawatt of fusion electricity could yield as much as 5,000 kilograms of gold. At today’s gold prices, that’s more than half a billion dollars in byproduct revenue, potentially doubling the economic viability of fusion plants.

There’s a catch, however: Freshly created gold atoms might carry trace radioactivity, requiring up to 18 years of “cooling time” before being deemed safe for commercial use. Still, the company argues that much of the world's gold sits in storage anyway, and delayed access won’t hinder its value in the long run.

Though still in the simulation phase, this proposal has captured the imagination of scientists and investors alike. If successful, it could reshape both the energy and precious metal industries of the future — replacing gold mines with clean fusion facilities, and turning modern science into the ultimate alchemy.

Credit: AI-generated image by The Jeweler Blog using ChatGPT and DALL-E 3.