News: Polished trading sluggish but suppliers to large jewelry retail brands doing well. Expectations rising for June 8-13 Las Vegas shows with dealers relying on US market to stimulate growth. Chinese buyers cautious amid slow retail sales. High inflation, Russia supply constraints and Chinese Covid-19 restrictions fueling uncertainty. Melee hot as lack of Alrosa supply creating shortages. India April polished exports -3% to $2.2B, rough imports -23% to $1.3B. Richemont FY jewelry & watch revenue +49% to $11.7B, operating profit +65% to $4B. Christie’s HK sells $56.3M (86% by lot), with rectangular, 3.06 ct., fancy vivid blue, IF, Moussaieff diamond ring going for $4.9M ($1.6M/ct.).

Specialist and adviser Sharon Novak shares insights and real-life stories on bidding successfully at jewelry sales.

Small retailers rely on an honor system with their vendors to ensure they know the origins of the stones they sell.

Finding skilled workers to craft pieces is getting harder, forcing the industry to take a good look at its pay levels and recruiting practices.