On November 26-27, FACETS 2024 brought together over 200 leaders, diplomats, and industry experts at Antwerp’s Handelsbeurs to address the challenges and opportunities facing the diamond industry. Organized in partnership with the Watch & Jewellery Initiative 2030 (WJI 2030), [JB1] the event continued its legacy of fostering impactful discussions and collaborations, focusing on key topics such as evolving mining practices, midstream trader adaptability, and the growing demand for sustainability and transparency in the supply chain.
The event kicked off with a powerful keynote address by H.E. President of Botswana, Mr. Duma Gideon Boko, who emphasized the importance of genuine partnerships for development, setting the tone for meaningful dialogue. This was followed by an insightful interview with Al Cook which delved into essential themes for the industry’s future, including a new sightholder framework, innovation, transparency, and the critical role of communication and collaboration in safeguarding the integrity of the pipeline and driving consumer confidence.
Later in the day, Watch and Jewellery 2030 Executive Director Iris Van der Vaken moderated the panel “Re-imagining Sustainability as Your Strategy to Business Innovation”, alongside Diana Verde Nieto, an international business and sustainability leader, and Francesca Manfredi, Head of Sustainable Innovation for Watches & Jewellery at Kering. Diana’s perspective that “sustainability is not a cost; it’s an investment,” highlighted the need to prioritize sustainable solutions. Francesca shared inspiring initiatives from Kering, illustrating how brands like Boucheron and Gucci are redefining the industry through innovation and collaboration, emphasizing the transformative role of technology and the engagement of the next generation.
Day 2, largely driven by WJI 2030, focused on advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment within the diamond industry. The day began with the formal signing of the Women Empowerment Principles (WEPs) by the Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC), marking a significant commitment to driving gender equality in the sector.
The day also featured a leadership forum on Advancing Gender Equality in Our Industry, with engaging panels and fireside chats from key industry figures such as Ahalya Choksi, Deborah Pienica, Didier Backaert, Eira Thomas, Francesca Manfredi, and Olivia Landau. Discussions highlighted the practical application of gender equality principles in member companies, with real-world examples from CHANEL, Gucci, Dimexon Diamonds, Bonas Group, Rosy Blue NV, and IGI.
The event concluded with the “Voices of Tomorrow” panel, where emerging leaders shared their vision for a more inclusive and diverse future in the diamond sector.
FACETS 2024 sparked vital discussions, paving the way for industry-wide action on sustainability, innovation, and gender equality. It highlighted the critical role of collaboration in building a more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient future for the diamond and jewellery sectors. Now is the time to transform these conversations into tangible actions—let’s work together to drive meaningful progress and shape the future of our industry.
