Imagine a world where diamonds not only sparkle but also empower communities and drive economic balance. That’s exactly what Ankit Gems is achieving with its groundbreaking expansion in Namibia. But here’s where it gets even more impactful: the company has tripled its facility’s capacity, turning it into a powerhouse of innovation, employment, and ethical practices. Let’s dive into the details.
Ankit Gems, a leading natural diamond manufacturer, has unveiled its newly expanded cutting and polishing facility in Windhoek, Namibia. This isn’t just a business move—it’s a bold statement about manufacturing closer to the source, creating value in diamond-producing nations, and fostering global economic inclusivity. The facility now spans an impressive 3,000 square meters, a threefold increase from its original size. With this expansion, it can process up to 10,000 carats of rough diamonds monthly, nearly tripling its previous output. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about production; it’s about people. The expansion is set to create jobs for 400-450 employees, up from the current 148, with 75% of the workforce being women—a significant step toward gender equality in the industry.
At the inauguration on November 7, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah highlighted the facility’s role as a symbol of trust in Namibia’s potential. “This expansion is a testament to strategic partnerships that create jobs, build skills, and drive sustainable value creation,” she said. But it doesn’t stop there. Ankit Gems has also invested in training programs, bringing experts from its Surat facility to Namibia and sending Namibian artisans to India for advanced learning. Here’s the controversial part: while some companies prioritize profit over people, Ankit Gems is proving that ethical practices and local empowerment can go hand in hand with business growth.
Ankit Shah, director of Ankit Gems, emphasized the lessons learned from recent global challenges. “Diversification is key,” he said. “Expanding our Namibia facility strengthens our resilience, ensures supply continuity, and brings craftsmanship closer to the origin. It’s a long-term investment in transparency, origin assurance, and local empowerment.” By manufacturing entirely within Namibia, Ankit Gems ensures single-origin traceability—a feature increasingly demanded by consumers seeking ethically sourced and transparently documented diamonds.
But here’s where it gets controversial: while some argue that advanced technology could replace local jobs, Ankit Gems has introduced cutting-edge tools like Galaxy, Galahad, and Diamond X-Ray in its Namibian unit, ensuring it matches the technological standards of its Indian facility. This move not only enhances quality but also positions Namibia as a hub for high-tech diamond expertise. Minister of Mines and Energy Frans Kapofi praised the initiative, stating, “This supports our goal to expand domestic beneficiation, reduce unemployment, and build high-tech expertise among Namibians.”
The expansion is more than a production boost—it’s a commitment to shared prosperity. By deepening collaboration between India and Namibia, Ankit Gems strengthens beneficiation initiatives that empower local economies while upholding global diamond excellence standards. The facility is both a technological marvel and a philosophical statement: true value in diamonds begins at the source, with skilled hands, ethical practices, and enduring partnerships.
As a De Beers Sightholder with a global footprint, Ankit Gems is setting a new standard for the industry. But we want to hear from you: Do you think more companies should follow this model of local empowerment and ethical sourcing? Or is profitability the ultimate goal? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a conversation about the future of the diamond industry.
