Diamond and jewelry industry journalist and author Rob Bates joins the show for a third time. The episode begins with a brief conversation about Rob's new fiction novel "Murder is Not a Girl's Best Friend" and how he manages his time between writing, his day job and family. Next, Paul and Rob exchange thoughts on Signet Jewelers' launch of lab-grown diamond versions of two of its most popular branded-diamond-ring lines: LEO Diamond and Vera Wang Love. The two then discuss whether lab-diamonds will impact the jewelry industry the same way that quartz watches did. Talk of lab-diamonds continues with Paul and Rob analyzing how the ability to grow larger and larger sized man-made diamonds will affect marketing of the product. The conversation concludes with the two sharing thoughts on whether diamond jewelry consumers are becoming more irreverent and what this could mean for the industry.

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.

Please note that the contents of this podcast includes anecdotes, observations and opinions. The information should not be considered investment or financial advice. Consult your investment professional before making any investment decisions. Please read full disclosure at: www.paulzimnisky.com.