2024-04-16 · Kerry
Dispute between Italian firm and Irish jeweller after breakdown of alleged romantic relationship is resolved
In a High Court case, World Diamond Group SPA (WDG) sued Irish jeweller Shuwan Li, trading as Empress Fine Jewels, over a €585,000 consignment of gemstones that Li allegedly refused to return. WDG claimed the dispute stemmed from payment issues, not from the end of a romantic relationship between WDG's CEO, Giuliano Castrenze, and Li. Li counter‑claimed that the action was motivated by the breakup of their alleged four‑year relationship, which she said had left her unable to trade. Both parties denied wrongdoing. After out‑of‑court talks, the parties agreed to adjourn the case for three weeks with the injunction in place, and to return to court in January. The injunction remains, preventing Li from selling or disposing of the goods. The case is now scheduled for a further adjournment to next month's hearing.