An abridged version of this article first appeared in the JNA July/August 2023 issue.  

Dong Liusheng is not called the “King of Diamonds” for no reason, having played a pivotal role in shaping China’s diamond industry. Back in the 1990s, he found the local diamond industry to be lacking in standards, structure and knowledge and was determined to usher in international levels of quality and production. The result was Kimberlite Diamond, which he founded in 1995 to create a diamond jewellery culture in the country. Armed with his clear and steady vision and brilliant business strategies, Dong turned the company into a leading luxury jewellery brand.

For nearly three decades, Dong has been enhancing China’s diamond jewellery manufacturing capabilities through the best practices he implemented at Kimberlite Diamond. These include efficiently integrating diamond manufacturing and retail processes, building public awareness of and desire for diamonds, and establishing diamonds as a wedding necessity among consumers.

His passion for Eastern cultural elements is reflected in the brand’s design philosophy. Kimberlite Diamond continually interprets these motifs in its collections, which have become synonymous with the brand along with its exceptional craftsmanship and first-rate quality.

Dong’s pioneering measures to build a solid foundation for China’s diamond industry have resulted in a world-class luxury jewellery brand in Kimberlite Diamond and new market and growth opportunities for the trade.

His remarkable achievements include his commitment to promoting cultural exchanges between China and Belgium. 

In 2011, Dong received the highest order of Belgium and one of the three current Belgian national honorary orders of knighthood, the “Knight of the Order of Leopold,” in recognition of his contributions toward the success of the Belgian Pavilion during the Shanghai World Expo 2010, among others. 

“I am heartened that my humble efforts have encouraged more people to work and build a stronger diamond industry together,” he said. “As a proud member of the jewellery trade, I hope to share my passion, experience and knowledge of the diamond industry with future generations.”

Dong believes the global market presents enormous potential for the diamond jewellery sector, with solid demand for high-end and personalised diamond jewellery moving forward.

For more information about the “Extraordinary 40” Awards, visit jwawards.com.

As part of its 40^th anniversary content programme, JNA is casting the spotlight on the “Extraordinary 40” Awardees with special online features covering the highlights of their careers and the valuable lessons they have learned along the way. Click here to view the “Meet the Extraordinary 40” series from May to September, with new profiles published every week.