Key Facts
• Kyocera’s jewelry business marks its 50th anniversary in 2025.
• Artificial gemstones are made using Kyocera’s ceramic manufacturing technology.
• No deep mining is required, making products environmentally friendly.
• The company aims for a 30% revenue increase within three years.
• Founder Kazuo Inamori started the business after seeing poor-quality emeralds sold at high prices.
• Kyocera successfully developed artificial emeralds in 1975.
• Currently, 12 types of artificial gemstones, including rubies and sapphires, are produced.
• Manufacturing takes place in Fushimi Ward, Kyoto City.
Summary
Kyocera’s jewelry business, which applies its ceramic manufacturing expertise to create artificial gemstones, celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2025. The initiative began when founder Kazuo Inamori sought to produce higher-quality gemstones after observing overpriced, substandard emeralds. In 1975, the company succeeded in manufacturing artificial emeralds, later expanding to 12 types of gemstones, including rubies and sapphires. These products, made without deep mining, have gained attention for their environmental benefits. Kyocera plans to grow its jewelry business by 30% in revenue over the next three years, with production centered in Kyoto’s Fushimi Ward.
