WHERE TRUST IS A TRADITION
From a young age, Arthur Satariano aspired to work in the diamond trade and his wish came true through some contacts who led him to a diamond cutting factory in Canada in the late 1960's.
The political and economic climate in Malta at the time gave investors limited options where to invest, and so gold and diamonds became a more attractive option. This was seen as a business opportunity for GABA and after three years in Canada, Arthur imported his know-how to Malta where he set up the first diamond cutting factory in 1972. He passed on some of his acquired skills to his brother Albert and raised enough capital with two other shareholders, Samuel and Anthony Cremona.
GABA became the first diamond cutters on the island and the largest dealers in gold bullion.
In 1973 the Company expanded its operations and entered into the retail business on high-end quality diamonds, eventually expanding into diamond jewellery design and production too. Between 1975 and 2000, 80% of GABA’s market was dominated by the distribution of diamonds, gold bullion, silver jewellery, 18ct gold, diamond jewellery, frames and household gifts to a network of local jewellers.
Economic and political changes rendered importation more viable than local cutting and the factory ceased its operations in 1995.
The company structure consists of GABA Co. Ltd, owning GABA Diamonds and GABA Gioielli. Today the business is run by the second generation of the Satariano family namely Lee Satariano, Wayne Satariano and Sue Satariano.
GABA Gioelli is now centralizing all of its business having over 37 years experience in the retail of diamonds, gold, watches, silver jewellery and household gifts under one roof. GABA, will now have a number of floors each specifically dedicated to particular jewellery lines. The ground floor is dedicated to silver, stainless steel and watch brands. Another floor will focus on gold and mini diamond jewellery. A floor will also be dedicated to wedding lists and household gifts whilst the top floor will feature an exposé of GABA’s craftsmanship and expertise in diamonds as an investment as well as product lines from highly reputed jewellery brands like Dario Settings, Crivelli, Lenti & Villasco and Korloff.