Industry sentiment mixed following sharp rise in rough and polished diamond prices. Rough selling at unsustainable premiums on secondary market, fueled by speculation and shortages. Further increases likely at De Beers sight.
Fancy (non round) Diamond Market robust. Good demand across all sizes. 1.20 to 3.99 ct., F-J, VS-SI is hottest category and seeing scarcities.
Belgium: Sentiment positive as value of inventory continues to rise. Dealers struggling to find profitable goods.
Israel: Traders concerned about price speculation. Sold items proving difficult to replace as valuations keep increasing.
India: Upbeat mood as US demand drives sales.
Hong Kong: Polished trading down due to spike in Covid-19 cases. Wholesale resuming slowly after Chinese New Year. Retail weak due to pandemic and lack of tourist shoppers; China border remains closed. Mainland market gradually improving but seasonally quiet. Jewelers saw vibrant gold sales during lunar festival.