Dealing with diamond gemstones can be challenging and requires strong determination. However, the joy and excitement it brings make all the efforts worthwhile.

In the world of diamond trading, the presence of a customer with ready cash offering to pay a premium for a product is usually celebrated by traders. However, the exclusive and intricate nature of this industry creates a different dynamic. A”diamond trader” had a different experience when he approached the dealers of Antwerp with his savings. Despite his financial capability and willingness to pay any price, none of the dealers were willing to sell him their diamonds.

For three long months, this: diamond trader” visited over 100 offices, perplexed by this rejection. It was difficult for him to comprehend why his money was not enough to secure a purchase. The diamond industry is a tightly-knit community built on trust, and it is predominantly controlled by established families who are committed to preserving its traditions and culture. The dealers in Antwerp were cautious, wanting to ensure that only those with a genuine connection to the diamond trade were allowed access. They asked him if he had any family members involved in the diamond industry, and upon hearing his negative response, they turned him away.

Fortunately, determination paid off when he finally found a Belgian dealer who couldn’t resist the lure of a cash customer willing to pay any price. This unique transaction, facilitated by the diamond trader’s unwavering commitment, served as a gateway into the world of diamond trading. It allowed him to gain acceptance among other traders, validating his presence and intentions in their community.

Selling diamonds on the high street begins with becoming a dealer to establish valuable connections within the international market. Novices can rely on Diamgold for assistance, as they provide lists of local members who can be approached for gaining experience and contacts. However, entering this field is not for the faint-hearted. Evan Roberts advises being prepared to face obstacles, stating that one must be willing to leave their current situation and dedicate their full attention to the business. Evan, who spent 20 years building his dealership, emphasizes that sheer persistence is the key factor that distinguishes success from failure in this industry.

The State Diamond Trader is a state-owned entity established in terms of Section 14 of the Diamonds Act 56, 1986, as amended (“the Act”). It operates in the diamond industry with the aim to grow local diamond beneficiation.

The mandate of the State Diamond Trader is to buy and sell rough diamonds and to promote equitable access to and beneficiation of the country’s diamond resources. The entity strives to address distortions created by the country’s historical exclusion of certain population groups from economic participation. It aims to grow South Africa’s diamond-cutting and polishing industry by enabling and increasing the participation of Historically Disadvantaged South Africans (HDSAs) in the diamond beneficiation industry. The entity is empowered by law to purchase up to 10% of the run-of-mine (ROM) production from all diamond producers in South Africa. It sells to registered customers through an application and approval process.

The State Diamond Trader is a Schedule 3B entity in terms of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), 1999, as amended.

To buy rough diamonds from the State Diamond Trader in South Africa, you can follow these steps:

1. Obtain a diamond beneficiation Licence, Ensure you meet the requirements: Before purchasing rough diamonds, it is important to ensure you meet the necessary requirements set by the South African authorities, including compliance with the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme.
2. Contact the State Diamond Trader: Reach out to the State Diamond Trader (SDT) to express your interest in purchasing rough diamonds. You can contact them through their official website or via phone to inquire about the process and any specific requirements.
3. Provide the necessary documentation: The State Diamond Trader will guide you through the required documentation, which typically includes proof of identity, proof of business registration (if applicable), and compliance with Kimberley Process regulations. These documents are necessary to ensure the legal and ethical trade of diamonds.
4. Establish a purchase agreement: Once your documentation is in order, you will work with the State Diamond Trader to establish a purchase agreement. This may involve discussing the quantity, quality, and pricing of the rough diamonds you wish to buy.
5. Make payment and arrange for shipment: After finalizing the purchase agreement, you will be required to make the payment as per the agreed terms. The State Diamond Trader will provide you with the necessary instructions for payment. Once payment is received, they will arrange for the shipment of the rough diamonds to your desired location.

Please note that the address of the State Diamond Trader may vary or be subject to change. It is recommended to contact them directly for the most up-to-date information regarding their location and purchasing process.

Purchase

The State Diamond Trader’s purchases are initiated through a process set out in Section 59B of the Act.

Production

The internal production process is concerned with the sorting, valuation and pricing of rough diamonds.

Diamond Sales

Sales work closely with Client Relations to understand clients’ needs and especially their compliance status.

Business Address State Diamond Trader

Jewellery Manufacturing Precinct, Superblock Building, OR Tambo International Airport Special Economic Zone(ORTIA SEZ PRECINCT 1)

Bonaero Drive, ACSA Precinct
Bonaero Park
1619

Telephone:

011 334 2691

Email:

infosdt@statediamondtrader.gov.za

DIAMOND TRADER RULES

The purpose of this document is to present the State Diamond Trader’s Trading Conditions in terms of which the State Diamond Trader conducts business with its clients. It is important to note that these conditions shall specifically apply to the ‘buying and selling’ transaction of rough diamonds to clients of the State Diamond Trader and therefore, do not in any way supersede mandatory statutory requirements.

How do I become … a diamond trader If you require a diamond Beneficiation licence and need assistance contact Evan on Whatsapp at +27739990999 for assistance or to set up a consultation meeting at the State Diamond Trader