UAE company tokenizes $280M diamonds on XRP Ledger. Blockchain improves transparency, liquidity, and security in global luxrury asset markets.
A company in the United Arab Emirates has launched a major blockchain project involving luxury diamonds. The firm Billiton Diamond tokenized over $280 million of certified diamonds on the XRP Ledger.
The project is the biggest luxury asset tokenization deal in the Middle East to date. It wants to introduce physical diamonds on blockchain networks for more convenient trading and checking.
UAE Sets New Record in Luxury Asset Tokenization
The tokenization project is for over 1 billion AED worth of polished diamonds. The assets were digitized via a collaboration with a digital asset infrastructural company Ctrl Alt.
Diamonds are forever and now, they’re on-chain 💎
The tokenization of 1 Billion+ AED in diamonds by @CtrlAltCo and Billiton Diamond isn't just a win for the UAE, it’s a masterclass in how the XRP Ledger handles high-value RWA at scale.
As part of the @Ripple team, I’m… https://t.co/rM3ewDnZXs
— Reece Merrick (@reece_merrick) February 27, 2026
The process is used to convert the physical diamonds into blockchain-based tokens. Each token is an ownership of an actual diamond held in custody. This way, digital trading is possible without the physical movement of the diamonds.
The system also utilizes the infrastructure from Ripple. Ripple provided custody technology to securely store physical assets that a digital token is connected to.
According to Ripple executive Reece Merrick, the project has shown how blockchain can be used to handle high-value commodities. He described the initiative as being “institutional grade pilot for tokenizing luxury goods.”
The project is based on the XRP Ledger, which provides fast and low-cost transactions. These are the technical features that can make it suitable for large-scale asset tokenization projects.
Blockchain Improves Transparency in Diamond Industry
The diamond industry is plagued by chronic problems of transparency and fraud. It is not easy for buyers to check the origin and genuineness of diamonds.
Blockchain technology helps to solve this problem by means of permanent digital records. Every transaction and change of ownership is made visible and traceable on the network.
By a process called tokenization, companies can produce clear digital proof of ownership. This process also helps to prevent counterfeiting and illegal trade.
The custody system of Ripple plays an important role in this model. The platform ensures the physical diamonds are kept outright while tokens are circulated in a digital format.
Because of this type of structure each token is fully backed by actual diamonds. Investors are, therefore, able to trust that the digital asset corresponds to a physical commodity.
The project also operates within the regulatory frameworks in United Arab Emirates. Authorities like the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre and the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority are in favour of innovation in digital assets.
These regulations aid in ensuring compliance and investor protection. As a result, the UAE continues to establish itself as a global blockchain innovation hub.
Luxury Markets Move Toward Blockchain-Based Trading
The world diamond trade amounts to more than $80 billion annually. However, traditional diamond markets are still slow and hard to access for many investors.
Tokenization can alter this structure by making diamonds easier to trade. Digital tokens provide for fractional ownership and faster cross-border transfers.
This means that investors could purchase shares of valuable diamond at smaller sizes. As a result, the value of luxury assets increases and becomes more liquid and accessible to global markets.
Industry data also indicates high growth for tokenized real-world assets. Reports indicate tokenized assets grew almost 300% in 2025 alone.
The diamond project is an indication of a growing interest from institutions in blockchain-based finance. Large companies are now considering tokenization as a useful tool for managing physical assets.
In addition to this, blockchain platforms help in providing global connectivity for asset markets. Networks such as the XRP Ledger enable users to move value between borders instantly.
For luxury items like diamonds, this technology could produce whole new trading ecosystems. Assets that were thought to be illiquid could become easily trading digital instruments.
The UAE diamond tokenization project is therefore a major step in the adoption of blockchains. It shows us how traditional industries can incorporate the digital infrastructure.
As the process of tokenization grows, more luxury assets could soon be appearing on blockchain networks. Diamonds, art and rare collectibles could all be tradable digital tokens in global markets.
Through this record-breaking initiative, the UAE is continuing to create a bridge between the traditional commodity and blockchain based finance.