The JCK team is in Las Vegas this week, speaking on panels, meeting with jewelry designers, and trying on new pieces for future editorial consideration. In other words: So many new collections, so little time to see and do it all in Sin City.

Industry news is pouring in from places beyond Vegas. India’s Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) announced today it has been accepted as a member of the Natural Diamond Council (NDC), making it the first industry group to join the NDC under the Luanda Accord framework.

“The Natural Diamond Council represents the voice of our industry to consumers globally, and it is important that we collectively support its efforts,” said GJEPC chairman Kirit Bhansali.

Amber Pepper, CEO of the Natural Diamond Council, said “Together, we are strengthening our collective voice to celebrate the rarity, authenticity, and emotional significance of natural diamonds, inspiring consumers around the world.”

India plays a central role in the global diamond pipeline, cutting and polishing an estimated 90% of diamonds by volume. The country also is growing in importance as a consumer market for diamond jewelry, according to the NDC. Ownership among Indian women rose from 11% in 2022 to 15% in 2025, its data shows.

India’s share of global diamond jewelry demand increased to 12% from 10% in 2019, the NDC said. Younger buyers are driving much of that growth, with Gen Z and millennials accounting for 86% of India’s natural diamond market value.

Here is a look at what else made JCK’s collective brain click this week.

News Worth Reading

Kohl’s first-quarter results made investors feel pretty excited about the retailer’s future, and its stock took off.

GIA’s president and chief executive officer talks about AI, the organization’s future, and opportunities within the jewelry industry. (subscription needed)

Mejuri is leaning heavily on silver and vermeil—and finding they’re just what jewelry consumers want. (subscription needed)

Honestly, it’s true: Walmart is becoming a go-to store for emerging premium brands.

Gen Zers are fueling the secondhand economy, but they have some questions.

Luxury brands are bullish on the U.S. market despite worldwide uncertainty. (subscription needed)

Hodinkee interviews Yoni Ben-Yehuda, head of watches at Material Good.

Johann Rupert says he loves Jaeger LeCoultre and it’s staying with Richemont. (subscription needed)

Namibia comes out strong saying the country’s minerals must first serve its people first.

Obsessions

People love to collect…tote bags?

Here’s why you should curate your life.

Learn the secrets all good librarians know and search better.

Be the best mash-up version of yourself that you can.

Podcast Queue

The 1916 Company discusses unique watches from independent brands.

Maybe NPR’s Life Kit podcast isn’t the best investment adviser, but they take a swing at whether gold is a good investment.

The Business of Watches talks to Angelus and Arnold & Son CEO Pascal Béchu.

(Photo: Getty Images)

The JCK News Desk uses AI to help research and produce the first draft of articles. This story was then reviewed by staff writer Karen Dybis.

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