Market Comment

United States

Sentiment up after Centurion show demonstrates stable demand. Fancy-colored diamonds sold well. Retail jewelers buying, but not in the significant quantities typical of January-February. Elongated fancy shapes above 1.50 ct. hot; cushions, ovals and radiants most popular. Some optimism for Valentine’s Day.

Belgium

Busier activity in Antwerp but fewer orders than usual for first quarter. Steady demand from European luxury houses following robust holiday season for high-end retail. Market stable for 0.50 to 1 ct., G-I, VVS2, 3X diamonds. Above 1 ct. slightly weaker. Smaller rough doing better than large goods.

Israel

Market cautious. Large volume of goods available despite decline in Indian manufacturing. Fancy shapes with excellent proportions moving well. Slower US demand for this time of year. Suppliers to Far East seeing rise in business. Some dealers traveling to Dubai for next week’s Jewellery, Gem & Technology (JGT) show.

India

Slowdown in US orders affecting India polished trading. Domestic demand steady ahead of wedding season. Chinese recovery driving improvement in 0.30 to 0.69 ct., D-K, VS-I1, 3X diamonds. Melee segment stable. Rough market quiet as manufacturers maintain low production. About 50 members of WFDB’s Young Diamantaires group visit Surat and Mumbai.

Hong Kong

Polished trading sluggish but gradually improving. More people in the city after China border opening, but dealers still waiting for business boost. Sellers holding prices firm after recent declines. Chinese buyers biding their time after Lunar New Year break. Retail picking up, particularly among luxury brands.