In a recent press release, the Swiss Gemmological Institute SSEF reported credible evidence of a new deposit of copper-bearing tourmalines in Ethiopia. If the find is confirmed, it could open a new chapter in the history of one of the world’s most sought-after colored gemstones: the Paraiba tourmaline.

Since their discovery in the late 1980s, Paraiba tourmalines have been among the most extraordinary and sought-after colored gemstones in the world. Their intense blue to blue-green color, often described as ‘neon’ or ‘electric,’ is primarily caused by copper within the tourmaline’s crystal structure. This spectacular variety was originally discovered near São José da Batalha in the Brazilian state of Paraíba. Later, additional well-known sources were found in Nigeria and Mozambique.

What is particularly interesting, according to the SSEF, is that initial trace element analyses show a significant overlap with already known areas of origin – especially with Brazilian material. This makes origin determination challenging for certain specimens and underscores the importance of modern gemmological analytical techniques. The SSEF announced that it will continue to characterize the potential new material and further develop methods for distinguishing Paraiba tourmalines from different origins.

For collectors, investors, and lovers of high-quality colored gemstones, this news is relevant for several reasons. Due to their rarity, exceptional color intensity, and limited deposits, Paraiba tourmalines are among the most valuable tourmalines on the market. Origin plays a major role here: stones from Brazil often command significant premiums over African material due to their historical significance, rarity, and market position. At the same time, Mozambique in particular has taken on a central role in recent years as a supplier of larger, gemmologically high-quality copper-bearing tourmalines.

Despite the great attention, caution is advised. So far, this is not a comprehensively scientifically documented and published new origin, but rather a highly gemmologically relevant report based on credible trade reports, submitted stones, and preliminary analyses. Furthermore, no verified, published specialist information is currently available regarding exact mining areas. The Italian Gemological Review also points out that further studies and a comprehensive chemical characterization are required before Ethiopia can be considered a newly documented Paraiba origin.

It is precisely this uncertainty that shows how crucial independent laboratory reports are for high-quality colored gemstones. When it comes to Paraiba tourmalines, it is not just about color and beauty, but also about chemical composition, potential treatments, origin, and documentation. In its research on origin determination, the GIA emphasizes that standard testing and simple qualitative analyses are often insufficient for Paraiba tourmalines; instead, quantitative trace element analyses are required to reliably differentiate between origins like Brazil, Nigeria, and Mozambique.

For the market, the news from Ethiopia therefore means one thing above all for now: attention, a need for research, and new questions. If Ethiopia is indeed confirmed as a new source of high-quality copper-bearing tourmalines, it would be one of the most exciting developments in the colored gemstone sector since the African discoveries in Nigeria and Mozambique. However, only time will tell whether and to what extent this will result in a stable market with consistent qualities.

For The Natural Gem, the core standard remains unchanged: the decisive factors are verified quality, transparent documentation, and the assessment of each individual gemstone. Especially with rare stones like Paraiba tourmalines, the rule stands: color, clarity, cut, treatment, origin, and an up-to-date certificate from a renowned gemmological laboratory are the foundation of any sound valuation.

The SSEF report on a potential new Paraiba source in Ethiopia is significant news for the international gemstone world. It shows that new chapters can still be written even for the rarest colored gemstones – and that scientific analysis, experience, and transparency are more important than ever.

The Natural Gem Creates an Exclusive Champion’s Ring for the Mallorca Championships 2026

This year, the champion will not only lift the coveted ATP trophy but will also receive a truly unique ring.

For the Vanda Pharmaceuticals Mallorca Championships 2026, The Natural Gem has designed and crafted an exclusive champion’s ring that will be presented to the winner of the ATP 250 tournament in Mallorca. The piece is entirely one of a kind and was created especially for this occasion.

The Mallorca Championships are among Europe’s most important grass-court tournaments and represent the only ATP grass-court event in Spain. Held from 20 to 27 June 2026 at the renowned Mallorca Country Club in Santa Ponça, the tournament serves as the final major preparation for international top players ahead of Wimbledon.

While every point is currently being fiercely contested on the grass courts of the Mallorca Country Club, a very special award is already awaiting the future winner. In addition to ATP ranking points, prize money and the official trophy, the champion will receive a lasting symbol of success in the form of the ring created by The Natural Gem—an unforgettable piece that is every bit as unique as the journey to the title.

The partnership highlights the shared ambition of The Natural Gem and the Mallorca Country Club to create extraordinary moments and combine international sporting excellence with timeless craftsmanship.

The question of who will receive the ring on finals day will be decided on 27 June on the Centre Court of the Mallorca Country Club. Until then, it remains arguably the tournament’s most exclusive piece of jewellery.

Vienna – For centuries, gemstones have fascinated people with their beauty, rarity and value. Yet behind their brilliance lies a highly specialised field that requires profound knowledge and many years of experience. This is precisely the standard to which Vienna-based gemstone competence centre The Natural Gem is committed.

Under the direction of internationally recognised gemstone experts Dr Thomas Schröck, founder of The Natural Gem, and Robert Ziegenfelder, specialist events entitled “Gem Connect” are held on a regular basis. The aim of these evenings is to bring together clients, collectors, investors and cooperation partners, while offering them valuable insights into the world of gemstone trading and gemstone investments.

The event series takes place at The Natural Gem’s premises directly opposite the University of Vienna. Personal interaction is a key focus from the very beginning. During an approximately 30-minute get-together, participants have the opportunity to establish new contacts, exchange experiences and discuss current developments in the gemstone market.

The central element of the evening is a 45-minute expert presentation by Dr Thomas Schröck. The talk not only provides essential knowledge about gemstones, their valuation and the mechanisms of the market.

Guests also benefit from the expert’s extensive international experience, including exclusive insights and practical information from the global gemstone trade. The topics range from quality characteristics and proof of origin to market trends and the particular qualities of gemstones as tangible assets. Especially in economically challenging times, the question of alternative investments is becoming increasingly important. Many investors regard high-quality gemstones as a long-term option for preserving wealth.

Following the presentation, the focus once again shifts to personal interaction. In a relaxed atmosphere, gemstones are examined, specialist questions are discussed and experiences are shared. The event series is therefore intended not only as a platform for knowledge but also as a network for people who share a passion for exceptional natural treasures.

The diversity of the audience is particularly noteworthy. Contrary to the common assumption that mainly women are interested in gemstones and jewellery, the Gem Connect evenings present a more nuanced picture. In addition to numerous female collectors, many men also attend the events. For them, the investment and appreciation potential of high-quality gemstones often takes precedence over purely aesthetic considerations.

Through the “Gem Connect” format, The Natural Gem is positioning itself as Austria’s central point of contact for expertise, consultation and networking relating to gemstones. The combination of scientific expertise, market knowledge and personal exchange makes the event series a meeting place for everyone who wishes not only to admire the fascinating world of gemstones, but also to understand it.

With Barbara Meier, The Natural Gem is gaining not only a well-known public figure, but also a convinced advocate for a new form of high-quality investment: transparent, responsible, and lasting in value.

The Natural Gem

Barbara, you recently became Brand Ambassador for The Natural Gem. Was there a moment when you knew: this is the right fit?

Barbara Meier

Gemstones have fascinated me ever since I was a little girl and received an Advent calendar filled with gemstones. I believe that stones can have an effect on us as human beings, and I often give them as gifts. Of course, because of my work, I also frequently wear jewellery with beautiful and rare stones at shoots or on the red carpet.

I first discovered gemstones as an investment through The Natural Gem. As with most of my collaborations, I asked many questions at the beginning — including critical ones — and took a close look at the origin of the stones and the working conditions behind them. My questions were answered carefully and in detail. That convinced me, together with the passion and incredibly deep expertise for these beautiful stones that I sensed at The Natural Gem.

The Natural Gem

You work with many brands. Why is The Natural Gem such a particularly good fit for you?

Barbara Meier

As I said, gemstones have always fascinated me. So being able to work with them is something very special, and I learn something new every time I visit the offices. Sometimes I ask to be shown particular features in the stones under a magnifying glass and have them explained to me.

That interest is something we share.

At the end of the day, however, a partnership also has to be aligned with my values and with the company’s attitude. Does the company take responsibility? Is the origin of the “product” verified? Are all questions answered? Is there transparency and independent certification?

In this respect, The Natural Gem has always made every effort to give me a good feeling and has answered every question that arose honestly.

The Natural Gem

In the podcast, you spoke about how intensively you have engaged with these topics. Where does this interest come from?

Barbara Meier

I simply believe that we all bear responsibility for what we do. And I try to take that responsibility seriously. For many years, I have volunteered in my free time for various organisations that protect children and the environment.

I am the mother of two young children. That makes the responsibility twofold: to be a good role model for my fans and followers, but also for my children.

For me, sustainability does not stop at food or fashion — it also applies to investments and jewellery. And this is exactly where The Natural Gem has shown me that there is a way to combine beauty, value, and responsibility.

The Natural Gem

You also visited us in Vienna. What impressed you most there?

Barbara Meier

How beautiful the premises are, and how much you can sense the love of gemstones everywhere. There is always something to discover. Uncut stones are also displayed, which makes it wonderful to visualise the process of how, for example, a piece of jewellery comes into being.

And then there is the calm atmosphere the rooms radiate. You can tell that this is not about quick sales, but that great importance is placed on in-depth consultation.

The Natural Gem

What fascinates you personally about gemstones?

Barbara Meier

Gemstones fascinate us as human beings in so many different ways. That is what I find most exciting.

Chemically, it is so impressive how these stones form in nature over millions of years, and how different environments or elements produce different colours.

Spiritually, stones have an effect on us that we can feel, even if we cannot truly explain it.

Aesthetically, we enjoy the beauty of stones and often want to keep them close to us, in the form of jewellery — sometimes every day.

Historically, there are stones with incredibly fascinating stories, including crown jewels.

And ultimately, financially as well: gemstones are also an interesting investment and a valuable addition to more traditional forms of investment.

The Natural Gem

You spend a lot of time in the world of jewellery and aesthetics. How does that fit with The Natural Gem?

Barbara Meier

For me, it fits together perfectly. What I find wonderful here is that it does not stop with the gemstone as an investment; you can also have individual pieces of jewellery created.

With recycled gold and genuine craftsmanship, it is possible to create a wonderful counterpoint to fast-moving, environmentally harmful mass production.

Pieces of jewellery like those from The Natural Gem are often passed down through generations. That is wonderful, because products like these have become rare.

The Natural Gem

You are working together on your own collection. What is your vision?

Barbara Meier

I want to create jewellery pieces that are timeless — but that also convey a clear attitude. It is not just about creating something beautiful, but something meaningful.

Ideally, I would like us to succeed in designing pieces that will later be passed on. We urgently need a countermodel to our throwaway society. Sustainability and transparency must be at the very top of our list of values. The Natural Gem and I fully agree on that.

The Natural Gem

You will also be appearing more frequently on the podcast in the future. What can listeners expect?

Barbara Meier

On the one hand, of course, I will be talking about our collaboration. But above all, I would also like to ask questions on behalf of the listeners. I am not as deeply familiar with the subject as the people here are. And I believe that many of the questions I ask myself are probably questions many people out there have asked themselves too.

I am already looking forward to being involved more often in topics related to lifestyle, trends, and sustainability.

The Natural Gem

What would you like to achieve in the long term with this partnership?

Barbara Meier

I hope that we can create a new awareness. That people begin to consume more consciously — including in the high-end segment.

That they ask questions: Where does this come from? Is it sustainable? Can I trust it?

If we can help make precisely these questions more important, then we will already have achieved a great deal.

The Natural Gem

Finally — your favourite gemstone?

Barbara Meier

That actually changes again and again — the more I learn, the more fascinated I become by the diversity. And that is exactly what makes gemstones so special.

Conclusion

The partnership with Barbara Meier stands for a clear attitude: transparency, trust, and sustainability are not a trend — they are the future.

While all investment segments are facing strong fluctuations, gemstones continue to remain a stable, reliable, and international investment option.

The Natural Gem GmbH, Europe’s leading expert in investments in untreated, naturally coloured gemstones, also recommends value-stable investments in selected gemstones for 2026. The company refers to its many years of experience in the international gemstone market as well as the sustained demand for high-quality natural gemstones as tangible assets.

The focus of these recommendations remains on a classic, conservative selection of gemstones that has proven particularly stable over decades. These primarily include rubies, sapphires, and emeralds. These gemstones enjoy high global recognition, are internationally tradable, and are characterised by consistently strong demand. Due to their established market position, they are regarded as comparatively resilient in times of crisis and are better able to withstand major price fluctuations than lesser-known alternatives.

From the perspective of The Natural Gem’s experts, these internationally recognised gemstones provide a solid foundation for investors seeking long-term value preservation. The combination of limited natural occurrence, consistent quality, and global acceptance makes ruby, sapphire, and emerald proven investment gemstones.

In addition, The Natural Gem GmbH also points to more speculative investment opportunities. These include, in particular, tourmaline and alexandrite, which may offer greater appreciation potential due to their rarity and distinctive characteristics. At the same time, the expert team emphasises that these gemstones should be regarded as speculative investments that are subject to stronger market fluctuations.

Managing Partner Dr. Thomas Schröck nevertheless remains convinced that this segment, too, can be expected to deliver positive long-term value development. However, he expressly points out that the decision to make such an investment always lies at the discretion of the individual buyer and requires a corresponding willingness to take on risk.

With this differentiated assessment, The Natural Gem GmbH once again underlines its role as a competent partner for gemstone investments and recommends a conscious, well-informed selection in line with individual investment objectives.

Synthetic gemstones are currently a major topic on social media. A smart investment, a bargain, or simply the latest gimmick?

Gemstone expert Dr. Thomas Schröck explains the differences between synthetic and natural gemstones, their production, and their value development.

What Are Synthetic Gemstones?

Synthetic stones are materials that are identical to natural gemstones in their chemical, physical, and optical properties, but are produced under controlled laboratory conditions. They are therefore not imitations, but genuine, man-made counterparts to natural minerals.

An Overview of the Production Processes

Synthetic gemstones are produced using technically sophisticated methods that replicate natural formation processes. In the case of diamonds, for example, a process is used that can be described in simplified terms as “baking”: crystals are formed within a controlled system under extremely high temperatures and enormous pressure.

Other gemstones such as ruby, sapphire, and corundum are produced using so-called pulling or drop-growth methods. In these processes, the crystal slowly grows out of a melt. Despite the industrial setting, this is a time-intensive procedure that requires precision and expertise.

Synthetic gemstones undoubtedly have their value and a clear justification, especially in technical applications. Corundum, which includes ruby and sapphire, is used in laser technology, for example. It also plays a central role in the watch industry: jewel bearings in high-quality mechanical watches as well as scratch-resistant sapphire glass are made from synthetic corundum.

In the jewellery sector, however, the market value of synthetic gemstones is significantly lower. Although synthetic diamonds command a certain price due to the energy and labour involved in their production, they still remain far below the value of natural diamonds.

Value Development: Clear Differences

A decisive factor for consumers is long-term value development. In the case of synthetic gemstones such as ruby, sapphire, or diamond, no increase in value is currently to be expected. By contrast, natural gemstones may show stable to rising value development, depending on quality, origin, and market conditions.

Conclusion

The Habsburg Gem Token (GEM) represents a new generation of investments: the combination of age-old values with cutting-edge blockchain technology.

Developed by The Natural Gem in cooperation with Habsburg Fine Arts, the GEM Token makes it possible for the first time to digitally represent an exclusive portfolio of physical gemstones.

One Token – Backed by Real Assets

Each GEM Token represents a share in the curated “Imperial Portfolio” of high-quality rubies, sapphires, emeralds, and other investment-grade gemstones.

These assets are securely stored, independently valued, and transparently documented on the blockchain.

Value Growth Through Real Assets

Unlike traditional cryptocurrencies, the GEM Token is based on tangible real-world assets – not on speculation.

As the value of the gemstones increases, token holders benefit directly as well.

Liquidity and Access Reimagined

The GEM Token opens up the traditionally exclusive gemstone market to a broader group of investors:

✔️ Entry possible with smaller investment amounts

✔️ Trading via blockchain platforms

✔️ Storage in digital wallets

✔️ Option to exchange tokens for physical gemstones

Transparency Through Blockchain

All transactions and valuations are traceable, secure, and accessible at any time.

Regulatory Milestone: MiCAR Compliance Achieved

What many projects still have ahead of them, we have already accomplished:

In close coordination with the Financial Market Authority Liechtenstein (FMA) and with the support of the law firm Nägele, the GEM Token now fully complies with the requirements of the MiCAR Regulation as well as the EU Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/2984.

A Unique Market Position

According to the FMA’s assessment, the GEM Token is currently the only Asset-Referenced Token (ART) across the entire EU and EEA that fully meets these regulatory requirements.

This means:

✔️ Maximum regulatory security

✔️ A clear pioneering role

✔️ A significant competitive advantage

📄 The new Whitepaper, effective immediately, adds further strength

The Natural Gem follows a clear vision: to build a strong international network around high-quality gemstone investments – based on trust, quality, and long-term value development.

At the core lies a strategic hub concept that connects carefully selected locations across Europe, bringing together exclusive networks, markets, and premium environments.

The headquarters in Vienna serves as the company’s operational and strategic center, from which all international activities are managed and further developed.

With its subsidiary in Zurich, The Natural Gem has established another key location in the heart of Europe, playing an important role in international business relations and access to global markets.

Building on this foundation, The Natural Gem is developing a network of selected hubs, each contributing a specific role within the overall strategy:

• Mallorca – Exclusivity & International Lifestyle Network
  The Mallorca Country Club represents a premium international environment and offers access to an exclusive network. Here, The Natural Gem combines its investment expertise with visibility and premium positioning.
• Frankfurt – Business Hub & International Connectivity
  The partnership with the Frankfurt Airport Club positions The Natural Gem in one of Europe’s leading business centers, focusing on business networks, global exchange, and strategic expansion.
• Salzburg – Partnerships & Regional Synergies
  The collaboration with 50plus GmbH creates targeted synergies within a strong regional environment, focusing on trust, high-quality communities, and sustainable network development.

This combination of locations enables The Natural Gem to position gemstone investments within an international context while building an integrated European network.

“Our goal is to create a strong international network based on quality, trust, and sustainable growth. The combination of selected locations and strategic partnerships is the key to our European expansion,” says Robert Ziegenfelder, Managing Director of The Natural Gem.

The Natural Gem continues to expand its European presence by entering into a strategic partnership with 50plus GmbH in Salzburg. This step further strengthens the company’s network and adds another key element to its European hub strategy.

50plus GmbH specialises in developing and connecting high-quality communities and business networks, with a focus on best agers, entrepreneurs, and decision-makers. With strong regional roots and an established network, the company provides an ideal platform for sustainable collaboration and high-level exchange.

Salzburg, as an established business and cultural location, offers ideal conditions for this cooperation. The partnership creates targeted synergies to unlock shared potential and drive long-term development.

“The partnership with 50plus GmbH is an important step in further expanding our presence in Europe while benefiting from a strong regional network,” says Robert Ziegenfelder, Managing Director of The Natural Gem.

The collaboration opens up new opportunities for exchange, innovation, and sustainable growth. Both partners aim to combine their strengths and create added value for their respective networks and markets.

“Our goal is to build a strong European network based on quality, trust, and long-term development. The partnership in Salzburg is an important part of this strategy and underlines our focus on sustainable expansion,” Ziegenfelder adds.