One of the world’s foremost names in natural diamond manufacturing, Ankit Gems has inaugurated its newly expanded cutting and polishing facility in Windhoek, marking a defining milestone in its ongoing efforts to manufacture closer to source, creating value in diamond producing nations thus promoting global economic balance and inclusive growth.

A New Chapter in Namibia’s Diamond Journey

The new multi-million-dollar facility now spans 3,000 square meters, a threefold expansion from its earlier footprint, with a capacity to process up to 10,000 carats of rough diamonds each month, nearly tripling its previous output.

This expansion can also significantly boost employment, with the company having created capacity to a potential 400 - 450 employees, from its current 148 employees. 75% of the current employees are women, thus promoting women empowerment in the country.

The Namibia operation is in partnership with Namibian Shareholders, aligning with the government’s drive for deeper Namibian participation in the diamond value chain.

“The expansion of this facility stands as a symbol of trust in Namibia’s potential and a testament to our strategic partnerships that create jobs, build skills and drive sustainable value creation,” said a statement from President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah at the inauguration of the new facility which took place on 7th Nov 2025.

Craftsmanship Meets Capacity

The expansion embodies Ankit Gems philosophy of bringing craftsmanship closer to origin, ensuring diamond producing nations gain tangible benefits through employment, skill enhancement & long-term value creation.

The company invested in structured training & skill transfer programs. Experts from Ankit Gems’ Surat facility regularly visit Namibia to train local artisans, while select Namibian craftsmen travel to Surat for advanced learning. Upon their return, they mentor new trainees, creating a cycle of knowledge transfer & local capacity building that sustains Namibia’s diamond craftsmanship ecosystem.

“Events of the past few years taught us the importance of diversification,” said Ankit Shah, Director of Ankit Gems. “Expanding our Namibia facility strengthens our resilience, ensures supply continuity & allows us to bring craftsmanship closer to origin. It’s a long-term investment in transparency, origin assurance & local empowerment.”

Excellence at the Source

By manufacturing directly in Namibia, Ankit Gems ensures single origin traceability, with diamonds mined, cut and polished entirely within the country. This approach aligns with the increasing global demand for ethically sourced and transparently documented natural diamonds. Ankit Gems has been a pioneer in introducing all the latest technology in Namibia time and again. Ankit Gems was one of the first to have Galaxy in its premises and now even was the first to have Galahad and Diamond XRay in its Namibian Unit. Ankit Gems has made sure that the Namibian Unit is at par with the India Unit in terms of technology and thus Quality.

“This initiative supports our goal to expand domestic beneficiation, reduce unemployment and build high-tech expertise among Namibians,” said Minister of Mines and Energy Frans Kapofi, who officiated on behalf of the President. “It demonstrates investor confidence in Namibia’s business climate and aligns with our mission to transform natural resources into long-term national value.”

Shared Growth, Shared Future

For Ankit Gems, the Namibia expansion is not only a production investment, but a commitment to shared prosperity. By deepening collaboration between India and Namibia, the company strengthens beneficiation initiatives that empower local economies while upholding the highest global standards of diamond excellence.

The facility stands as both a technological achievement and a philosophical statement: that true value in diamonds begins at the source, with skilled hands, ethical practices and enduring partnerships.