Mikaelah Egan

Swarovski recently reported a substantial increase in sales over the past financial year, driven by the popularity of lab-created diamonds. A recent study from the US found that 52 per cent of couples purchased an engagement ring featuring lab-created diamonds in the past year. In contrast, while sales at Signet have declined in recent months, the company has reportedly prioritised a more apparent distinction between natural and lab-created products.

The ancient landscape comprises various cratons, formed during the Precambrian period, the earliest part of the Earth's history. This unique geological landscape is rich in minerals, providing a diverse environment for gemstone formation. Brazil is home to more than a hundred different varieties of gemstones; here are just a few that have shaped the gemmological history of the country.

After two decades, the US occupation of Afghanistan concluded in August 2021, and the World Bank estimates that the country’s economy has shrunk by 25 per cent over the past two years. In a bid to revive the economy, the Taliban is reportedly prioritising the sale of natural resources, which includes weekly emerald auctions.