Pre-owned timepieces are beating jewelry at auction and outselling hard-to-get newer models.

Maker’s marks, photos, and family testimonies are just some of the clues appraisers use.

The country’s diamond sector has been aiding local communities for generations, helping out with everything from disaster relief to educational programs.

Diamonds are certainly not the only commodity to have a tainted past where illicit trade and financing is concerned.

Rapaport Magazine asks: Which jewel from a Sotheby’s or Christie’s sale would you most like to own, and why?

Economic pressures are boosting the appeal of pre-owned jewelry among retailers and consumers alike.

Countries where diamond mining is associated with severe human rights abuses need to enable independent investigations and uphold the rule of law to ensure accountability for perpetrators and remedy for victims.

The industry must devote more resources to uncovering and stopping human rights violations.

This report was obtained through confidential sources. All names and initials have been changed to protect the identity of the people involved.

Diamond dealers expect a less sparkly festive season, but they aren’t too concerned.