New Delhi [India], June 6: The global jewellery industry is eyeing lab-grown diamonds as a groundbreaking market development poised to revolutionize its operations. These ethically produced gems are rapidly gaining traction due to their affordability, controlled production, streamlined quality control, and, most notably, sustainability.

Despite widespread misconceptions that lab-grown diamonds are not genuine or prone to losing their colour over time, Ricky Vasandani, co-founder and CEO of Solitario Diamonds, challenges these prejudices. He elucidates why the market is increasingly embracing lab-grown diamonds.

The global shift towards sustainability has significantly influenced the demand for lab-grown diamonds, Ricky begins. These diamonds are ethically produced and free from the ecological concerns associated with mining. In India, the lab-grown diamond industry is capitalizing on the growing demand for sustainable and responsible choices. The Indian government has recognized this potential and has taken measures to support its growth through financial incentives, research and development grants, and promoting innovation in diamond manufacturing.

Ricky emphasizes that success in the diamond industry requires both financial prowess and market acumen. He elaborates on Solitario Diamonds’ unique position in this competitive landscape: their diamonds are grown, not synthetic or processed, setting them apart. With a focus on bespoke designs and unmatched craftsmanship, Solitario stands out. Ricky explains, At Solitario, we adopt a franchise model with key partners across various markets. However, more than fifty percent of our catalogue consists of custom-made pieces to maintain authenticity and exclusivity. Our partners offer invaluable insights into local markets, guiding our strategic expansion efforts.

For consumers desiring larger stones, lab-grown diamonds present a compelling advantage by offering the allure of larger gems at a fraction of the cost of mined diamonds. This appeal is particularly pronounced among Gen Z consumers, who prioritize style and aesthetics over the perception of wealth.

Lab-grown diamonds, characterized by their lustrous appearance and absence of imperfections, owe their durability to cutting-edge production technologies that prevent damage over time.

Lab grown diamonds are created from tiny carbon seeds of pre-existing diamonds. With the use of advanced technology, either extreme pressure and heat or a special deposition process known as chemical vapor deposition (CVD), lab-grown diamonds are produced to mimic natural diamond formation. This makes the process controlled, quick and sustainable.

Vasandani further mentions that Solitario is ESG-certified and equipped with the latest technology. Our lab-grown diamonds are graded in the same way as mined diamonds–by their Color, Cut, Clarity, and Carat. Ricky explains.

A key factor weighing down the favour of labs in India is that the segment is still new for the audience. The global market has embraced lab-grown diamonds for their sustainable and ethical advantages. However, India is only now beginning to warm up to this segment. The Indian market is unique, driven by deep-rooted values and a strong emphasis on trust. Customers here prioritize a seamless experience, with exchange and buy-back policies playing a crucial role.

Ricky’s global experience has deeply influenced Solitario’s operations in India, and he remarks, At Solitario, we understand these nuances and are committed to building trust through transparency and exceptional service. Solitario diamonds are IGI and SGI Certified, ensuring market resale value and customer assurance.

To reach a wider audience, Solitario employs three distinct distribution models: standalone boutiques, shop-in-shops within renowned retail spaces, and an exclusive online shopping experience with Parallel World. This approach ensures accessibility and convenience, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to sustainable luxury.

Looking ahead, Ricky forecasts a significant shift in the industry towards the incorporation of lab-grown diamonds, opening up new market segments and driving healthy profits. The surge in gold prices is fuelling demand for lightweight jewellery, a demand that can be met efficiently with advanced technologies. Affordability will emerge as a key determinant in shaping future trends within the industry. To balance the cost of gold, people may shift to lab-grown diamonds. Solitario is prepared to adapt to these changes, offering sustainable luxury that meets evolving consumer demands.

Lab-grown diamonds are poised to revolutionize the jewellery industry, bringing new designs, trends, affordability, and sustainability. With their sparkle and ethical appeal, they represent the future of luxury.

ANDOVER, Conn. – Connecticut State Police reported a stabbing incident at Andover Pizza, resulting in one individual injured and another arrested. Samuel Bitcon, a 36-year-old man from Portland, was charged with second-degree breach of peace, second-degree assault, and physical threatening in connection with the incident that unfolded on Wednesday night. Upon responding to the disturbance call at around 11:30 p.m., troopers found Bitcon exiting the establishment with a bloody knife in hand. Inside, they discovered a man with a stab wound to his abdomen and minor head injuries. The victim was promptly taken to a nearby hospital for medical attention. Bitcon has been assigned a $100,000 cash/surety bond and is scheduled for a court appearance at Rockville Superior Court on June 6.

A descendant of two Titanic survivors has criticized an Ohio billionaire’s plan to conduct a $20 million dive to the world-famous wreck. Shelley Binder, whose great-grandmother and great-uncle survived the tragic sinking, raised concerns about the need to disturb the site further. Binder and other descendants view the Titanic wreck as a grave site and find Titanic tourism offensive. Meanwhile, billionaire Larry Connor announced plans to take a state-of-the-art submersible to the site to showcase the ocean’s wonders. The clash between preservation and exploration highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the Titanic’s legacy and the impact of modern expeditions on its historical significance.

Coimbatore city police arrested a 41-year-old man for dumping mutton and chicken waste near a temple car — belonging to Koniyamman Temple — in Raja Street. Identified as M Mohammed Ayaz, 41, of Podanur, he was working at a mutton and chicken stall owned by his elder brother, Mohammed Vaise, in Gandhi Park. Ayaz collected the meat waste in a carry bag and rode his scooter to dump it near the temple car. Following public outrage, police investigated the incident, leading to Ayaz’s arrest and subsequent judicial remand.

President Joe Biden was adamant that U.S. weapons would not be used to strike Moscow or the Kremlin after he authorized Ukraine to use them in Russia during an exclusive interview with ABC News anchor David Muir at the Normandy American Cemetery on the 80th anniversary of D-Day.

Muir asked Biden if U.S.-made weapons have already been used in Russia since he signed off on their use, limiting use to areas near the Russian-occupied Kharkiv region. The president did not directly answer, but made clear they would not be authorized to be used to target Russia’s capital city or seat of government.

They’re authorized to be used in proximity to the border when they’re being used on the other side of the border to attack specific targets in Ukraine, Biden told Muir of U.S. weapons. We’re not authorizing strikes 200 miles into Russia and we’re not authorizing strikes on Moscow, on the Kremlin.

Muir asked the president about Vladimir Putin’s comments overnight, that the supply of high-precision weapons to Ukraine for strikes on Russian territory is direct participation in this war.

Does that concern you? Muir asked Biden.

I’ve known him for over 40 years. He’s concerned me for 40 years. He’s not a decent man, Biden said. He’s a dictator, and he’s struggling to make sure he holds his country together while still keeping this assault going. We’re not talking about giving them weapons to strike Moscow, to strike the Kremlin, to strike against — just across the border, where they’re receiving significant fire from conventional weapons used by the Russians to go into Ukraine to kill Ukrainians.

Biden is in France to commemorate the day Allied forces stormed the beaches of Normandy in 1944, setting off a chain of events that led to the fall of Nazi Germany and the end of World War II. Later Thursday, Biden plans to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss the war effort.

Michael reveals how slowing your mealtimes and savouring the flavours could help you stay full for longer, cut down your snacking and even reduce your blood sugar levels.

In our bustling modern lives, it can be all too easy to wolf down our meals on the go, and never take the time to enjoy them properly. In this episode, Michael Mosley finds out how simply slowing down the speed at which you eat can help you feel full for longer, snack less, and improve your digestion. Michael speaks to Dr Sarah Berry from the department of nutritional sciences at King’s College London, who shares findings showing that eating slower can reduce your blood sugar response to food, as well as reducing your calorie intake. Our volunteer Stewart tries to make eating slowly a habit in an attempt to improve his sleep.