Russia hosted the 2014 Winter Olympic Games in Sochi, but did you know that it’s the country that wins the gold medal for diamond production?”

Alrosa mined 34.4 million carats of diamonds last year, well ahead of De Beers’ total of 27.9 million, which most people equate the world’s leader in diamond production. In fact, Alrosa has relegated De Beers to “silver medal” status for the past three years.

Sleek. Simple. Sophisticated.

It’s Zen Style – jewelry that has clean lines and uncomplicated shapes. There’s little in the way of ornamentation and embellishment. Its beauty comes from artful construction and the pairing of contrasting shapes and colors.

As a diamond consumer, you’ve probably heard the term “diamond treatment” or “treated diamond,” or perhaps “enhanced diamond” and wondered what that meant. A relatively small percentage of gem-quality diamonds are treated and they are treated for two reasons: to improve clarity or to alter color.

Going once. Going twice. Going three times. Sold for $83.2 million.

That was the winning bid for the 59.6 carat Fancy Vivid Pink Dream in November 2013 – the most ever paid for a diamond. The amount was comparable to prices paid for paintings by some of the masters.