The London Diamond Bourse (LDB) now has a woman president—a first not only for the LDB but, it said, for any diamond bourse in the world.
Charlotte Rose (pictured) was elected president at the bourse’s annual general meeting on June 25. She had been the LDB’s vice president since 2024, when she became only the second woman worldwide to hold the VP position at a diamond bourse.
Rose is founder and director of Solomons & Rose, a vintage jeweler, and founder and head of fine jewelry at Furlong, its newly created auction division. At the LDB, she succeeds David Troostwyk, who served as president for two and a half years and is now vice president.
“While becoming the first woman to be elected to the role is a significant milestone, I believe it’s a reflection of the progressive nature of the London Diamond Bourse and as an industry that continues to evolve,” Rose tells JCK, describing herself as “incredibly proud” to be entrusted with the presidency.
“I want to elevate our presence both in the U.K. and internationally, strengthen collaboration across every part of the trade, and ensure my initiatives endure long beyond my presidency,” Rose says.
“Together, our work will be focused on supporting and championing our members, creating opportunities for them and for the next generation, ensuring the London Diamond Bourse remains at the forefront of our industry.”
Rose says she intends to build on the strong foundations Troostwyk established during his presidency. He said in a statement, “It has been a privilege to lead the London Diamond Bourse, and I couldn’t think of a more capable, ambitious, young leader to be handing over the presidency to than Charlotte.
“She has the vision, hunger and work ethic needed to succeed in modernizing and taking The London Diamond Bourse forward,” Troostwyk added. “I am pleased to be able to support and continue to work alongside her, and together, with the support of the Council of Management, we will carry on the important work we have begun for our members and the wider industry, making sure the London Diamond Bourse remains forward-thinking, progressive, and an example to other diamond bourses.”
Among the messages of congratulations pouring in for Rose, the World Diamond Council said on LinkedIn, “This is a truly historic milestone…. a valued member of the WDC community, Charlotte has been a passionate advocate for our industry. We are also honored to have her among the leaders lending their voice to our revised System of Warranties campaign, championing trust, transparency, and consumer confidence.”
At the London Diamond Bourse’s meeting, Wolf Rabstein was elected treasurer and Paul Koppelman was reelected executive officer. The bourse, established in 1940, is a member of the World Federation of Diamond Bourses.
(Photos courtesy of London Diamond Bourse)
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