Miner Fura Gems has appointed gemstone supplier China Stone as sightholder, giving the company exclusive access to a selection of premium-quality rough rubies.

The partnership, which Fura Gems founder and CEO Dev Shetty described as a first of its kind in the coloured gem industry, is aimed at meeting market demand for increased transparency and traceability in the gem trade.

As sightholder, China Stone will receive a guaranteed allocation of rough rubies ranging from 0.25 carat to 0.75 carat for an initial period of three years. The rubies will come with a “Proof of Mine Origin” that certifies these were sourced from Fura Gems’ Montepuez mine in Mozambique. 

In turn, China Stone can provide a chain of custody to its clients, ensuring full traceability from mine to market, Shetty continued. A consistent supply of coloured gems, meanwhile, could significantly boost demand from brands, large retailers and manufacturers.

Fura Gems and China Stone will also jointly develop marketing materials and activities to spur demand and foster consumer confidence in the trade as part of the partnership.