BIG BANG: The Paris Exhibition Celebrating Natural Diamond Beauty

Ethical jewel Exhibition

Written by Bérengère Treussard - Tuesday, November 19, 2024

A Unique Immersion into the World of Natural Diamonds

From November 22 to 24, 2024, the Natural Diamond Council (NDC) is offering a groundbreaking experience through the BIG BANG exhibition, hosted at La Cité in Paris. Captured through the lens of French photographer Sonia Sieff, this exhibition showcases the brilliance and depth of natural diamonds — precious stones that have captivated humanity for centuries.

© Sonia Sieff for the NDC

This collaborative project, born from Sonia Sieff’s artistic vision and supported by the NDC, offers a unique perspective on the timeless and inspiring nature of diamonds.

David Kellie, CEO of the NDC, explains: "Sonia Sieff captures raw beauty and emotion through her work, echoing the NDC’s mission to reveal the authenticity and rarity of natural diamonds."

© Sonia Sieff for the NDC

A Tribute to Nature’s Miracle

Natural diamonds, formed deep within the Earth, are far more than mere jewellery. They tell a fascinating geological story, forged under extreme conditions billions of years ago.

Through this exhibition, the NDC seeks to raise public awareness of the natural processes and history that make these stones truly one of a kind.

"Beyond their sparkle, each diamond is a miracle of nature, a unique piece with unparalleled depth and history," emphasises David Kellie.

The exhibition also delves into universal themes such as the power of nature, the passage of time, and sustainability – values that align closely with the NDC’s mission.

© Sonia Sieff for the NDC

Canada: A Global Leader in Ethical Diamond Production

Alongside the exhibition, the NDC highlights Canada’s crucial role as the world’s third-largest diamond producer. An exclusive documentary, featuring actress and NDC ambassador Lily James, sheds light on the positive impact of responsible mining in Canada’s Northwest Territories.

This initiative illustrates the NDC’s efforts to promote an ethical and environmentally conscious diamond industry while supporting local and Indigenous communities. Visitors will have the opportunity to hear firsthand testimonials from these communities about the role diamond mining plays in their economic development.

Traceability and Ethics at the Heart of the NDC’s Priorities

The natural diamond industry is evolving rapidly with innovations like blockchain technology, ensuring complete traceability from extraction to sale. Solutions such as De Beers’ Tracr and Everledger offer unprecedented transparency, strengthening consumer trust.

"Today, we can trace the journey of a diamond from the mine to the final piece of jewellery. This reflects our commitment to responsibility and transparency," explains David Kellie.

A Contemplative and Emotional Experience

Sonia Sieff’s work in the BIG BANG exhibition stands out for its sensitive artistic approach. Her photographs capture diamonds in their authentic form, exploring their sensory and emotional nuances.

This vision aligns perfectly with the NDC’s values, showcasing that every natural diamond carries a unique story shaped by time – a one-of-a-kind gift from nature.

"Sonia Sieff gives diamonds a voice, connecting them to profound human emotions," notes David Kellie.

© Sonia Sieff for the NDC

A Timeless Symbol of Beauty and Emotion

For consumers, a diamond represents far more than a precious stone. It’s a testament to love, a mark of strong emotions, and an heirloom passed down through generations. The NDC encourages buyers to look beyond the sparkle to understand the positive impact and ethical value behind each natural diamond.

Visit BIG BANG in Paris

Open to the public from November 22 to 24, 2024, at La Cité, the BIG BANG exhibition invites visitors into a world of both artistic and scientific discovery. This is a unique opportunity to rediscover the beauty of natural diamonds and their role in our collective history.

About the Natural Diamond Council

Founded in 2019, the Natural Diamond Council is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting natural diamonds by emphasising their rarity, authenticity, and positive impact on local communities. Through innovative campaigns and strategic partnerships, the NDC redefines the image of diamonds by highlighting their ethical and sustainable values.

About Sonia Sieff

Sonia Sieff is a photographer and filmmaker who began her career in travel photography before transitioning into fashion, following her initial exploration of the film industry. Renowned for her mastery of light, she has published several works focusing on the human body, including a recent book celebrating the poetry and raw beauty of the male form, released in March 2024. With this exhibition, Sieff places diamonds back in their cosmic origin while celebrating their contemporary brilliance, infused with a playful sense of nostalgia and indulgence. Sonia Sieff by Denis Boulze © Denis Boulze

Don’t miss this unique celebration of natural diamonds! All diamonds photographed were lent by Rosy Blue, Rubel & Ménaché.

For more information, visit the Natural Diamond Council website and let yourself be dazzled by BIG BANG at La Cité!

🗓️ From Friday 22nd November to Sunday 24th November 2024

📍 La Cité, 71 rue Réaumur, 75002 Paris

🕙 10am – 7pm (closing at 4pm on Sunday)

🎟️ Free Admission



In collaboration with the Natural Diamond Council