Adam Plant has been working in the gem and diamond trade since he was 18. Now, with Orange River Diamonds, he specialises in supplying loose diamonds and gemstones to manufacturers who create bespoke engagement rings and fine jewellery.
Adam’s inspiration was born of his visits to relatives on Namibia’s Skeleton Coast where, as a child, he was first exposed to roadside gem and crystal traders along with big industry diamond mining.
“Those early days talking about shipwrecks of lost gold and alluvial diamonds being found on the beach deposited thousands of years ago by the Orange River, filled me with a passion for treasure and adventure that I’ve never been able to lose,” says Adam.
“Today I’m inspired to see how far I can push the polished diamond industry in Australia. It’s our company goal to be world class diamond dealers and compete with the big established dealers in India, Belgium and Israel.”
Leading into Christmas, Adam expects to see an increase in lab grown diamond sales, popular among fashion jewellery and statement pieces.
Adam advises being prepared for the Christmas season and stocking up on diamonds early. Mined diamonds are experiencing significant supply chain issues due to the international sanctions against Russia.
Exciting news last month at Orange River Diamonds was the opening of their second office in Adelaide.
“We opened the office on the 4th of July in the Edments Building on Rundle Mall. This will be a real logistical benefit for all of our great clients in SA, VIC and WA as we can now cut down on the shipping times and get diamonds in front of your clients faster,” says Adam.
The Adelaide branch will be led by Louise McManus, who has been a respected and pivotal member of the South Australian Diamond Industry for over 20 years.
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