Panel Discussion: The enduring value of natural diamonds [JUN 26]
Date: Tuesday 16 June, 2026
Start Time: 5pm
End Time: 7pm
Venue: FORGE
Perspectives from across the jewellery trade.
Natural diamonds have moved through markets, cultures and generations for centuries. Yet today the jewellery industry is navigating a period of rapid change — shifting customer expectations, evolving retail environments and new conversations around value.
Against this backdrop, natural diamonds continue to occupy a unique place in the jewellery world.
Bringing together voices from across the trade — including retail, auctions, craftsmanship and board members of the London Diamond Bourse — this panel explores how different sectors of the industry experience and communicate the enduring value of natural diamonds.
From the trading floor and the workshop to the auction room and the retail counter, our speakers will share insights from their part of the industry — what they are seeing in today’s market, how customer attitudes are evolving, and why natural diamonds continue to resonate with clients.
Through stories from the trade and real examples from their work, the panel will explore how jewellers can continue to present natural diamonds as meaningful, lasting and distinctive in a changing market.
Who is S Weissbart?
What will we explore?
– How different parts of the jewellery trade define the value of natural diamonds
– What jewellers are seeing from customers in today’s market
– How conversations around natural diamonds are evolving across the trade
– The questions jewellers are navigating when discussing diamonds with today’s clients
– The growing relevance of antique and second-hand diamonds
– Why craftsmanship, provenance and storytelling continue to shape how clients connect with diamonds
– Whether natural diamonds hold a unique advantage as objects designed to last across generations
– How professionals across the trade are communicating the value of natural diamonds in a changing market
Who is on the panel?
Chair:
Jonathan Weissbart has been a partner since he joined his brother David and father Saul in the family business in 1995. He joined after an early career in accountancy and has built his career in the diamond trade, continuing the legacy established by his late father.
He is known for his approachable style and ability to put clients at ease, combining deep market knowledge with particular expertise in the second-hand jewellery sector. Jonathan places strong value on building long-term relationships and takes pride in understanding each client as an individual. He continues to support the wider trade through knowledge-sharing and a genuine commitment to the industry.
Charlotte Rose
Charlotte Rose is one of the jewellery industry’s most respected and trusted authorities, bringing over 15 years of experience to the founding of Furlong Auction House. Established with a clear vision, Furlong offers a modern, transparent and client-focused approach to fine jewellery auctions, redefining the traditional auction model for today’s market. In 2023, Charlotte made history as the first female Vice President of the London Diamond Bourse, a milestone that reflects both her leadership and her commitment to driving meaningful change within the trade. Renowned for her expertise in natural diamonds, valuation, and market insight, she continues to champion integrity, education, and innovation across the industry. Through her work, Charlotte is shaping a more open, informed and forward-thinking future for the global jewellery and diamond sector.
Geoff Murray
Geoff Murray has been a member of the trade in Hatton Garden for 22 years. His company Wyat Jewellery produce bespoke fine jewellery specialising in commissioning handmade pieces and working with coloured gemstones. He is the host of the Hatton Garden podcast. The aim of the podcast is to explore the cultural significance of Hatton Garden as a national and even internationally significant place through conversations with members of the trade. It is a place with a deep history embedded in the jewellery making community which goes underappreciated in the public consciousness.
David Troostwyk
David Troostwyk is President of the London Diamond Bourse, Founder of CiviGem, and Director of Salotro, a London-based diamond trading company. With over 20 years’ experience across the global diamond pipeline, from rough sourcing in Africa to polished distribution in Antwerp and international markets, he brings a deep understanding of how the industry operates at every level.
David founded CiviGem as a community led platform to reconnect the diamond and jewellery industry around trust, relationships, education, and collaboration providing a shared digital space that strengthens, rather than replaces, the industry’s foundations.
Alongside running his trading business, he plays an active leadership role within the industry, including his work and Board role with the Young Diamantaires Organisation.
His perspective combines commercial experience, institutional leadership, and a clear focus on the future of natural diamonds; balancing tradition, innovation, and long-term industry sustainability.
Jim Donnelly
Jim Donnelly is a highly experienced jewellery retailer with over 45 years in the trade. He owns and operates two retail shops, supported by a dedicated team of nine staff. Specialising in Antique, vintage and secondhand jewellery, Jim has built a strong reputation for quality and expertise. His business also offers an exceptional repair service, with an on-site goldsmith providing skilled craftsmanship.
Jim’s passion for jewellery began at an early age, influenced by his father, a jeweller working in Hatton Garden. From the age of seven, Jim spent his summer holidays in the workshop, gaining hands-on experience that laid the foundation for his lifelong career in the industry.
Why should I attend?
As a jeweller or industry professional, this conversation offers the opportunity to:
– Hear perspectives from leaders across multiple parts of the jewellery trade
– Gain insight into how today’s market is evolving from those working within it
– Reflect on how natural diamonds can be positioned meaningfully for clients
– Learn how stories, history and craftsmanship influence how customers value diamonds
– Connect with fellow professionals in an open industry discussion
The discussion will conclude with a short audience Q&A, giving attendees the opportunity to ask questions directly to the panel.
What will happen on the evening?
5.00pm: Welcome drinks
5.20pm: Panel discussion followed by open floor comments and questions.
6.30pm: Drinks and mingle
7.00pm: Close
Who is it for?
All members of the jewellery industry, from students, diamond dealers, designers, jewellery collectors and enthusiasts.
What should I bring?
- Note book and pen
- Glasses (if you need them!)
What is included?
Light kosher bites and refreshments on arrival and during networking.
How do I get there?
FORGE 59 Leather Lane, London EC1N 7TJ
See contact page for details on public transport and parking.
How do I book?
To book your spot simply add the number of spaces you'd like and click Add to Cart, then click on the basket icon in the top right corner to proceed to checkout.
Discount codes can be applied at checkout.
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£10.00