London Jewelers is celebrating its 100th anniversary with an extraordinary project: the transformation of a 63-carat natural rough diamond into a magnificent 20.26-carat D Flawless Old Mine Cushion-cut diamond. This significant undertaking, a collaboration with Grandview Klein Diamonds, honors a century of the jeweler's legacy. The selection of the final diamond's weight specifically commemorates the company's centennial, highlighting a commitment to heritage while embracing modern craftsmanship.

The journey of this remarkable diamond began at an exclusive event during JCK Las Vegas on May 29. Key figures from London Jewelers, Grandview Klein Diamonds, and De Beers Group gathered to unveil the raw crystal. Among the esteemed speakers were Mark and Candy Udell, the proud owners of London Jewelers; Moshe Klein, CEO of Grandview Klein Diamonds; Al Cook, CEO of De Beers Group; and Don Gaetsaloe, the permanent secretary for Botswana's Ministry of Minerals and Energy. Their presence underscored the international significance and collaborative spirit of this initiative.

Crucially, the rough diamond will undergo its cutting process in Botswana, its country of origin. This decision is integral to the ORIGIN De Beers Group program, which focuses on transparently tracing a natural diamond's journey from its raw state to a polished gem, providing verified provenance and rich storytelling. Every phase of this intricate transformation will be carefully documented, ensuring a complete and verifiable history for the final masterpiece.

Once complete, this diamond, fashioned from a single rough crystal and exceeding 20 carats, is poised to join the ranks of the world's most exceptional natural diamonds. The Old Mine Cushion cut, a style with roots stretching back centuries, was chosen specifically for this project. As Scott Udell noted, this choice symbolizes a deep respect for the past while boldly looking towards the future, blending historical artistry with contemporary techniques.

The collaboration between the Udell and Klein families spans decades, built on a foundation of mutual trust and shared values. Moshe Klein expressed profound honor in being entrusted with such a pivotal role in commemorating London Jewelers' centennial, emphasizing the deep-seated history between their families. Mark Udell reiterated this sentiment, stating that Grandview Klein Diamonds was the only partner they trusted to bring a stone of this magnitude to life, further cementing the bond between these two prominent names in the jewelry world.

The painstaking process of recreating the historic Old Mine Cushion cut using modern methods exemplifies the dedication to both tradition and innovation. This monumental diamond not only celebrates London Jewelers' 100-year journey, marked by craftsmanship, resilience, and enduring relationships, but also sets a new benchmark for excellence and provenance in the global diamond industry. From its humble beginnings as a small storefront in Glen Cove, London Jewelers has evolved into a powerhouse, with this exceptional diamond serving as a luminous symbol of its rich history, familial bonds, and promising future.