Royal Asscher president resigns after 50 years

Royal Asscher Diamond Company has announced that Edward Asscher, the firm’s president and fifth generation of the company, has retired from his role. He worked within the family company for exactly 50 years, and upon his departure, his children Lita and Mike Asscher will serve as co-presidents for the business. Asscher joined Royal Asscher in 1970, where he then apprenticed with his father and uncle, working alongside the “finest” diamond craftsmen in the industry. He became company president ten years later, running the business alongside his brother Joop until his death in 2006. Asscher later expanded the business into international markets, and went on to patent four proprietary diamond cuts. Asscher remains a “passionate campaigner” for an ethical diamond industry that “respects human and environmental rights”, and has held board positions across numerous charities and industry bodies. He served as president of the World Diamond Council (WDC) from 2014 to 2016, and will begin another two-year term in June of this year. Commenting on his resignation, Asscher said: “Fifty years in the family business made it an extraordinary journey. It was a pleasure and an honour to work with three generations of Asschers: my father, my late brother Joop and two of my three children. “Our industry has had its challenges in many aspects, but ethical standards, transparency, innovation, and professionalism have become the norm and will keep the industry as beautiful as the product itself. I now leave, with full confidence that the future of Royal Asscher is in the able hands of the next generation!” Lita Asscher said: “It’s an extraordinary moment because my father has contributed 50 years of dedication to our family business. He is an amazing example, and he has instilled us with a drive and passion for the diamond business. “Edward’s work ethics, his command of complexities, his devotion and focus have been exemplary at the company. His achievements and energy will always resonate throughout Royal Asscher.” Mike Asscher added: “Working alongside my father has been an incredible experience. He has been a mentor, friend, and business partner for over 21 years. Together we have created some of the world’s most beautiful patented diamond cuts, which are now part of our family tradition. “I look forward to continuing to work closely with Lita in leading our company, serving our expanding client base and delivering strong growth for our retailers across the globe.”