Gemfields Group Limited (AIM:GEM) CEO Sean Gilbertson presented at the Proactive One2One Investor Forum about the company’s operations in Zambia and Mozambique, its ownership of Fabergé, and the evolving dynamics in the coloured gemstone market.
He highlighted that emeralds and rubies from its African mines now compete with diamonds in value, with emeralds and rubies surpassing white diamonds per carat at world record prices.
Gilbertson discussed the company’s focus on reliability in gemstone supply, partnerships with host governments, and recent challenges. Gemfields produces 25% of the world’s emeralds and approximately 50% of rough rubies. The CEO emphasised the importance of premium gemstones, which generate the majority of revenue despite forming a small percentage of output.
Gilbertson also shared insights on Gemfields’ $70 million investment in a new processing plant in Mozambique, expected to triple ruby processing capacity and drive revenue growth by 2026. The Fabergé brand remains pivotal for marketing, enabling collaborations with luxury giants.
“Lab-grown gemstones don’t impact our market the same way as diamonds,” Gilbertson noted, explaining how natural gemstones retain their unique value and identity.