Market Comment

News:

Market steady, with round dossiers stable and 2 ct.+ remaining solid. Continued recovery in US demand for round, 1 to 2 ct. F-I, VS2-SI2 goods; inventory difficult to replenish. Some demand for Princess, 2 to 3 ct., F-I, VS-SI diamonds. US and Indian consumers supporting retail market. Rounds still moving better than fancies. Trading centers quiet over Jewish holiday season. Industry expecting news on De Beers sale. Matt Stuller to receive Jewelers of America Lifetime Achievement Award.

Fancies:

Long fancy shapes such as Ovals, Marquises and Emeralds moving well in 2 ct. and larger. High-quality Marquises, long Radiants and long Cushions in short supply. Marquise is most expensive fancy shape. Long Cushions easy to sell and trading at 20% to 25% premiums over square ones. Reports of demand for Princesses after long period of weakness; prices remain low. Antique cuts and styles hot. Solid US market for elongated Ovals of good shape and quality in D-I, VS-SI categories. Very well-cut fancy shapes difficult to find and commanding premiums. Fancies with bad proportions illiquid.

The country comments will return next week.