Episode 28: Patricia Inonge Zita Mweene, Inonge Zita. It is striking that despite the huge quantities of gemstones exported from Africa for high jewelry, that they are rarely cut in the locations where they are mined. Designer and Founder of sustainable fine jewelry company Inonge Zita (@inonge.zita ) Patricia Mweene has started a cutting facility in Zambia that utilizes graduates (primarily women) from the local cutting school. We meet some of the cutters and visit the company, touring the emerald cutting process and discussing barriers to entry and how she’s working to improve value addition in the Zambian supply chain. We take viewer questions throughout. Interested listeners can also view additional imagery at the Beekman New York instagram @beekmannewyork as well as to view the full interview at the Beekman New York Fine Jewelry Podcast on YouTube and Vimeo.

Each episode of the series features a conversation between Dr. Sharon Novak, certified gemologist and co-founder of Beekman New York, and an industry expert within the luxury space, highlighting their shared joy and appreciation of fine jewelry. Topics include mixing period jewelry with modern pieces, heritage and craftsmanship of luxury jewelry houses worldwide, certfied natural and phenomenal gems and collecting vintage jewelry.