In the latest episode of The Materialist, I sit down with the brilliant Sally Morrison, a leading voice in the diamond world who spent decades shaping De Beers' iconic story. Together, we unpack how natural diamonds are evolving amidst the rise of lab-grown alternatives, changing generational attitudes toward commitment, and the shifting ways we define luxury.

Episode Highlights:

* How the diamond dream is adapting for younger consumers who value the authenticity of their journey rather than traditional notions of “forever.”

* Why “quiet luxury” is replacing flashy status symbols, and what this means for the future of natural diamonds.

* The creative potential and distinct emotional appeal of lab-grown diamonds.

We also spotlight emerging jewelry designers Sally admires, each bringing something uniquely powerful to the jewelry world:

* Lorraine West: Bridging fine and fashion jewelry with authenticity and bold creativity.

* KhirY (Jameel Mohammed): Supported by Tiffany & Co., redefining modern elegance with cultural resonance.

* Castro Smith: Reviving the ancient art of engraving with intricate storytelling and craftsmanship.

Why Listen:This is a conversation about why we choose the objects we love and how the meanings we assign to them are shifting faster than ever. It's essential listening for anyone interested in the nuanced future of luxury, diamonds, and personal style.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit atpresent.substack.com