Market awaiting US tariff decision as July 9 deadline approaches. Retailers and dealers delaying purchases amid uncertainty. US consumer demand steady. New York wholesalers preparing for seasonal slowdown in July. Indian trade quiet. Prices for round, 0.50 ct. diamonds declining. 1 ct. stable, though some categories softening. Fancies steady, with 2 ct. and larger stones hot in long shapes. Rough market positive. Prices up at Okavango June auction. Israel resumes shipments following Iran ceasefire. Heated battle occurring over marketing strategies as natural industry goes negative on synthetics. HRD stops grading loose synthetic diamonds. GIA names Pritesh Patel president and CEO.

Trade members and consumers were overwhelmingly unimpressed with the latest ads.

Nilesh Chhabria of Finestar Jewellery & Diamonds addresses trends at the recent Las Vegas fair.

From ovals to long cushions, the show was strong for exhibitors with the right loose stones. Yet most goods remain weak as tariffs and synthetics continue to impact the market.