In this episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, good friend of the show Rob Bates returns for the fourth time. The conversation begins with Paul reviewing Rob's diamond industry predictions from 15 years ago. Next, the two speculate on what the next 15 years could bring. Then, Paul and Rob discuss the latest impact that U.S. sanctions are having on the flow of Russian diamonds. The conversation then moves to the "explosion" of lab-diamond production capacity in India and what it means for the industry. The two then discuss De Beer's Lightbox lab-diamond jewelry strategy and how a lower lab-diamond price-point could change the incentive of retailers and front-line sales personal. Lastly, Paul and Rob discuss Taylor Swift's affinity for jewels and they comment on the current state of social media.

Hosted by: Paul Zimnisky

Guest: Rob Bates

Guest plug: www.robbatesauthor.com

More information on PZDA's State of the Diamond Market report: www.paulzimnisky.com/products

Show contact: [email protected] or visit www.paulzimnisky.com.