Doha is set to transform into the epicenter of the global diamond and gemstone industry with the highly anticipated Doha International Diamond & Gemstone Conference (DIDGC) 2025. This pivotal event, bringing together leaders, innovators, and stakeholders, will pave the way for the industry's future by fostering collaboration, integration, and innovation across the value chain.

With the theme "The New Connection," the conference will emphasise the urgent need to adapt to evolving consumer expectations, sustainability demands, and cutting-edge technologies. Over three transformative days, DIDGC will provide a platform to engage in high-impact discussions on transparency, category marketing, traceability, and sustainability.

This conference is poised to reshape the narrative of the diamond and gemstone industries, moving beyond traditional approaches to a more holistic, value-driven model.

Opening Session: Insights from Global Leaders

The conference will commence with opening addresses by distinguished leaders, including H.E. Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism; H.E. Bogolo Joy Kenewendo, Minister of Minerals and Energy of Botswana; Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman of DMCC; Edward Asscher, Vice President of Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC); Vipul Shah, Chairman of GJEPC (India); and Feriel Zerouki, President of World Diamond Council (WDC). These eminent speakers will set the tone for the conference, sharing their perspectives on the diamond and gemstone industry’s evolving landscape.

Inside the Diamond Trade with Paul Rowley
A deep dive into the world of diamond mining and trade with Paul Rowley, Vice President of Global Sightholder Sales at De Beers and a 40-year veteran of the industry. Moderated by Richard Chetwode, Managing Director, RCC Diamond Consultants, this session will provide unique insights into the challenges and opportunities of the diamond trade.

Fostering Collaboration in the Diamond and Gemstone Sectors

Moderated by Richard Chetwode, Managing Director of RCC Diamond Consultants, this panel will delve into strategies for enhancing partnerships across the industry. Panelists include Yamkela Makupula, CEO of SADPO, advocating for artisanal miners; Paul Rowley, EVP at De Beers, emphasizing upstream and downstream collaboration; H.E. Kizito Pakabomba, Minister of Mines of the DRC, highlighting the country’s global supply chain role; Naseem Banu Lahri, Managing Director of Lucara Diamond, showcasing Botswana’s innovation; Emile Ekonda-Elasha, Founder of COOMIAP, on empowering local mining communities; and Ronnie VanderLinden, President of the International Diamond Manufacturers Association, calling for unified global efforts.

Coloured Gemstones and Pearls: New Horizons

Moderated by Richa Goyal Sikri, author and gemstone specialist, this panel will explore mining, marketing, and transformative projects in the gemstone and pearl sectors. Speakers include Dev Shetty, CEO of Gaston International, discussing the future of gemstone investments; Elena Basaglia, Head of Partnerships at Gemfields, emphasizing sustainable mining; and Rashmi Sharma of Jewel of Africa, on African gemstone value addition.

The Tech Advantage in Diamond and Gemstone Marketing

Moderated by Margot Stuart, Co-Founder of OriginAll Luxury, this panel will explore how cutting-edge technologies like blockchain, AI, and laser inscription are transforming the luxury market. Key speakers include Bernold Richerzhagen, Founder of Synova, on advanced inscription techniques; Pritesh Patel, SVP & COO at GIA, on AI-driven insights; Bruno Scarselli, Founder of authentia.io, on blockchain for provenance; Klemens Link, Director of Provenance Proof, on traceability innovations; and Hans Schwab, CEO of OriginAll Luxury, on merging technology with luxury branding.

Adding Value to Diamonds and Gemstones: Captivating Consumers

Moderated by Frank Mueller, Founder of The Bridge to Luxury, this session will focus on strategies to elevate the global appeal of diamonds and gemstones. David Kellie, CEO of the Natural Diamond Council, will discuss impactful category marketing, while jewellery journalist and consultant Katerina Perez will highlight the art of storytelling in branding. Francesco Tombolini, a seasoned luxury industry consultant, will share insights on leveraging global luxury strategies, and Richard Chetwode, an independent mining and diamond market expert, will provide actionable marketing insights to keep consumers engaged.

From Mines to Markets: Driving an ESG Revolution

Moderated by Alex Popov, Chairman of the Conference Organizing Committee, this panel will address ESG challenges and opportunities across the supply chain. Kinjal Shah of the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) will discuss global standards for ESG practices, while Rashmi Sharma from Jewel of Africa will highlight sustainability in gemstone mining. Feriel Zerouki, President of the World Diamond Council, will explore ESG benchmarks, and Yamkela Makupula, CEO of SADPO, will focus on inclusivity in artisanal mining. Pritesh Patel, SVP at GIA, will cover responsible sourcing, and Margot Stuart, Co-Founder of OriginAll Luxury, will share insights on ESG innovation in luxury branding.

Special Highlights

Attendees will experience Qatari desert culture at Heenat Salma Farm in Al Shaniya, featuring food tastings, workshops, and cultural showcases. The event will conclude with The Morning After Show, a reflective session where panelists, moderators, and attendees will summarize key discussions and outline actionable next steps for the industry’s future.

WHY ATTEND THE DIDGC 2025?

The DIDGC 2025 is a comprehensive, forward-thinking gathering that aligns with the dynamic realities of a rapidly evolving market. Here’s why this conference is unmissable:

• Thought Leadership at its Finest: Attendees will hear from world-renowned speakers, including ministers, CEOs, and thought leaders, discussing breakthrough strategies to redefine the diamond and gemstone supply chain.
• Insightful Panels & Discussions: With panels addressing cutting-edge topics like advanced traceability technologies, marketing strategies inspired by luxury sectors, and the role of ESG in shaping the industry, the conference promises to spark transformative ideas.
• Explore Qatar’s Role as a Global Luxury Hub: Against the backdrop of Doha’s rise as a luxury destination, the event will highlight Qatar’s growing influence in the diamond and gemstone trade.
• Unparalleled Networking Opportunities: Forge meaningful connections with key players from across the globe, including policymakers, luxury retailers, mining executives, and sustainability advocates.
• Immerse in Qatari Culture: Attendees will experience Qatar’s rich heritage with curated cultural experiences, workshops, and networking dinners that showcase the country’s unique blend of tradition and innovation.

A GLOBAL PLATFORM FOR CHANGE

As the diamond and gemstone industries face increasing pressure to align with sustainability goals and consumer expectations, the DIDGC 2025 serves as a call to action for all stakeholders to reimagine their roles.

From strategic insights to actionable outcomes, the conference is the ultimate destination for anyone invested in the future of diamonds and gemstones.