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

Clement Sabbagh, director of Ben Sabbagh Bros and former president of the International Colored Gemstone Association (ICA), is a prime mover in the gemstone trade, having spearheaded industry-wide projects encompassing market expansion, ethical sourcing, social and environmental accountability and innovation.

A second-generation gemstone specialist, Sabbagh's vision for the industry extends beyond business growth. His advocacy-driven leadership found a home in ICA where he served as board member for 10 years and president from 2017 to 2023 – the longest tenure in ICA history.

Sabbagh considers the establishment of the “Gems Keep Giving” fund, which supports artisanal miners and their communities in the areas of education, healthcare and environmental stewardship as well as the implementation of the Accredited Ethical Member (AEM) programme, which promotes responsible sourcing, transparency and consumer confidence by ensuring proper disclosure of gem enhancements and origins, among ICA's glowing achievements under his leadership.

"By providing support and resources, we have empowered small artisanal miners, uplifted their livelihoods and helped them achieve sustainable development," noted Sabbagh. "The AEM, meanwhile, has instilled trust among stakeholders, enhanced the industry's reputation, and empowered consumers to make informed choices. This initiative sets a high standard for responsible practices and contributes to the overall sustainability and integrity of the gemstone and jewellery sector."

It was also Sabbagh who successfully led ICA to recovery after the onslaught of Covid-19, which disrupted supply chains and international travel and brought about economic uncertainties. He said, "We responded with unwavering determination and resilience. We swiftly adjusted our operations to the new normal, leveraging technology to foster connections and enable virtual collaborations. Through online conferences, webinars and digital platforms, we ensured the continuation of knowledge sharing and networking despite physical limitations." 

Moving forward, Sabbagh will continue to impart his knowledge and understanding of gems to inspire and empower the next generation of coloured gemstone professionals. In addition, sustainability and responsible business practices will remain at the heart of his future endeavours.

“The coloured gemstone market is ever-evolving and I am enthusiastic about staying informed about emerging trends, technological advancements and market dynamics,” he remarked. “I look forward to further expanding international collaborations and partnerships. In an increasingly interconnected world, fostering global connections is crucial to industry growth and success.”

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