‘Strongest natural diamond growth coming from India’: Al Cook, CEO of De Beers Group
Al Cook, CEO of De Beers Group, sees India as a bright spot for natural diamonds as rising demand, growing aspirations, and higher disposable incomes pull consumers toward the category. Despite the inroads made by lab-grown diamonds as a cheaper alternative, Cook—who visited India for the second time in eight months this week—says domestic consumers remain discerning in their choices. In an interview with Viveat Susan Pinto, he outlines De Beers’ priorities for India and its retail strategy. Excerpts:
