The World Federation of Diamond Bourses has paid tribute to Gerald Rothschild, who has died in Germany at age 86. Rothschild was a veteran DTC diamond broker, who served as managing director at I. Hennig & Co., and in 1995 set up his own brokerage office.



"Gerald was the impeccable English gentleman, whose gracious manner often hid from view his massive contribution to the diamond industry over the past 60 years," said WFDB President Avi Paz.



"The diamond community will miss Gerald's vision and innate understanding of our business. On behalf of diamond bourse members from across the WFDB, I send condolences and best wishes to his family," Paz said.



International Diamond Manufacturers Association President Moti Ganz said that "One cannot underestimate the role that Gerald has played in our industry since the late 1940s, and in particular in the establishment of diamond cutting centers in Israel, India and China."



"The part he played in establishing a steady rough diamond supply for industries that were just getting their feet on the ground was absolutely critical for their eventual success. His place in these centers' history books is absolutely assured," Ganz added.



Diamond Dealers Club President Moshe Mosbacher said that for many veterans of the diamond community in New York, Rothschild was "not only a broker, but also a friend."