The men are allegedly responsible for stealing millions in jewelry and other valuables in 43 burglaries in 25 towns across Massachusetts.
State Dept. issues alert for fake KP certificates
Diamond traders and others in the industry should be on the lookout for a fake Kimberley Process certificate numbered Sierra Leone (SL) 004199.
Washington.--Diamond traders and members of the industry should be on the lookout for a number of fake Kimberly Process certificates, warns the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs.
In an alert sent out Friday, the department warned that in one recent scheme, individuals were invited to Sierra Leone to view rough diamonds later identified as fake stones. It was not immediately clear at press time of what material these “fake” diamonds were actually made.
The individuals also were provided with a fake KP certificate numbered Sierra Leone 004199, issued in either April or May of this year. Variations of this certificate SL 004199 have been presented to diamond purchasers in the last three weeks.
In the last year, U.S. Customs and Border Protection also has identified fake KP certificates from Guinea, Ghana and Sierra Leone used to defraud people in an advance-fee scheme.
The criminals approached U.S. citizens on the Internet, telling them to buy the rough diamonds directly from West African sources and promising legitimate KP certificates.
The State Department is asking anyone who is presented with a fake KP certificate to contact U.S. Customs and Border Protection at kpmailbox@dhs.gov, and the Department of State at USKimberleyProcess@state.gov.
The Latest
“Horizon” invites individuals to explore the limitless possibilities that lie ahead, said the brand.
The jeweler credits its recent “Be Love” campaign and ongoing brand revamp for its 17 percent jump in sales.
Meet Ben Claus—grand prize winner of For the Love of Jewelers 2023 Fall Design Challenge.
The co-founder of Lewis Jewelers was also the longtime mayor of the city of Moore.
Elvis Presley gifted this circa 1967 gold and diamond watch to Dodie Marshall, his co-star in “Easy Come, Easy Go.”
With Ho Brothers, you can unlock your brand's true potential and offer customers the personalized jewelry experiences they desire.
Concerns about rising prices, politics, and global conflicts continue to dampen consumer outlook.
May’s birthstone is beloved for its rich green hue and its versatility.
Last month in Dallas, David Walton pushed another jeweler, David Ettinger, who later died.
The “Tiffany Céleste” collection reimagines designer Jean Schlumberger’s interpretations of the universe.
The brand also created a 100-carat lab-grown diamond necklace in honor of its centennial.
Tim Schlick has been promoted from his previous position as COO.
It’s the second year for the event, slated to take place in October in Toronto.
Supplier Spotlight Sponsored by GIA
“SIS x MISA Denim and Diamonds” is a collaboration between the designer and celebrity stylist Misa Hylton.
The retailer is moving to a newly designed space in the same shopping center.
Gifts that are unique and thoughtful are top of mind this year, according to the annual survey.
The necklace is featured in the brand’s “Rebel Heart” campaign starring Adam Levine and Behati Prinsloo.
The two organizations will host a joint event, “Converge,” in September 2025.
Big changes appear to be on the horizon for the diamond miner and its parent company, Anglo American.
Padis succeeds Lisa Bridge, marking the first time the organization has had two women board presidents in a row.
Jesse Cole, founder of Fans First Entertainment, shared the “five Es” of building a fan base during his AGS Conclave keynote.
The Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar "John Mayer" was celebrated at a star-studded party in LA last week.
The announcement came as the company reported a 23 percent drop in production in Q1.
The three-time Pro Bowler continues to partner with the retailer, donating to a Detroit nonprofit and giving watches to fans.