“Baron” Baretzky,  the former Chairman of CozDia International who has resigned in June  last year has accepted the post as CEO of DiaLab South Africa. He said in an interview that this is to maintain an objective view of diamond grading as it would be a conflict of interest to be directly related to any sales or trade in Africa. He explaines that Africa needs an objective view and therefore he has no interest in participating in any sales or deals in Africa.  This brings a surety to the dealers and interest of many whom has perhaps spread some anecdote about this issue.

“Baron” Baretzky said that his interest in the laboratory is far greater than the market itself and that the diamond industry is on the brink of a new revolution. The development of new grading and finger printing techniques is a fast and liberal growing business. “Baron” Baretzky served for many years as Vice-Chairman of Sowoon Technologies in Switzerland.  He will still remain Chairman of DAE-SHIN Limited Hong-Kong whom is the conglomerate that holds several companies such as DiamondTopics.com

“Baron” Baretzky also explained that he will continue to hold his position at DiamondTopics.com till a suitable replacement is found. DiamondTopics provides news objectively to the diamond industry and intelligence network of the industry to protect the industry from fraud and corruption. This could only be a plus for DiaLab since the ultimate goal is transparency for all.  What is good news, unlike his competitors,   is that BN Baretzky is an also a Certified Diamond Grading specialist from the HRD Antwerp. This gives him a tremendous advantage in the development and structural setup of the Laboratory.

He quotes: “ I wish to bring a regularity balance in the African markets that could produce a consistency that is lacking at this point and time. We need to recognize that the South African market is very sensitive to changes and not in good shape at this point in time”

By Kevin Brenen

IFJ MEMBER