Hello to all our valued gem friends,

We’re entering an exciting new chapter at Tanganyika Trading.

After decades at the helm, Hilmar is beginning to take life a little easier. I’m honoured to now be taking the reins, with Hilmar continuing to mentor me through this important transition. His knowledge and care for the trade are unmatched, and I intend to carry the same values forward — integrity, personal service, and a commitment to fine facet-grade rough.

I’m a qualified gemmologist, trained both in Idar-Oberstein, Germany (FGG) and through the GIA (Graduate Gemologist, GG). Originally from Zimbabwe, I’m now based in London, UK, where I’ve been working in the gem and jewellery industry.

After visiting Hilmar in March and again more recently in September, I’m now in the process of establishing Tanganyika Trading’s operational base in the UK. There are several benefits to this move — especially for our global clients. The UK offers more efficient logistics, including reliable and affordable postal options for smaller orders, which were previously difficult to send without using expensive couriers like DHL. This makes it easier (and more cost-effective) for lower-value orders.

There’s also a strategic upside for our US-based clients: due to recent tariff changes, rough gemstones exported from South Africa now face up to 40% in tariffs (30% base + 10% BRICS surcharge). Operating from the UK allows us to bypass those additional costs and continue serving our biggest customer base — the United States — more competitively.

Over the coming months, we’ll also be making improvements to the website and uploading exciting new stock as it arrives from our trusted suppliers across Africa and beyond.

As always, feel free to reach out via phone, WhatsApp, or email if you have any questions or just want to talk stones. I'm here to help.

Warm regards,

Mike Lewis

WhatsApp: +263 772 599 599

email: gems@tanganyikatrading.com

Tanganyika Trading