DiamondBuzz
Diamond industry operated amid uncertainty due to tariff negotiations between the U.S. and India
Diamond prices rose sharply at the beginning of April in response to announcements of new U.S. import tariffs, and then stabilized later in the month when the U.S. delayed the tariffs by 90 days.
The RapNet Diamond Index (RAPI™) for 1-carat goods edged up 0.7% during the month. The index for 0.30-carat diamonds continued to strengthen, rising 2.8% in April and 13.2% since the beginning of the year. The 0.50-carat RAPI increased 0.6%, while 3-carat stones saw a minor decline of 0.3%. VVS collection goods of 0.30 carats performed well due to increased Indian demand and a slight improvement in China.
The industry operated amid unprecedented uncertainty due to the continuing tariff negotiations between the U.S. and India, respectively the world’s largest diamond-consuming and -manufacturing countries. Trading slowed in centers outside the U.S. However, business within the U.S. was steady and prices rose, reflecting part of the expected tariff costs. The market is closely monitoring end-consumer reactions.
U.S. inventories are elevated, as American traders purchased goods before the tariffs’ anticipated start date, and global trading centers — especially Indian exporters — shipped popular goods to the U.S. Diamond imports to the U.S. are now experiencing a slowdown. Elongated fancy shapes saw strong demand in April, both internationally and in the U.S.
Diamond and jewelry retailers are finishing preparations for Mother’s Day on May 11, one of the key U.S. sales holidays. A survey by the National Retail Federation (NRF) projected that consumer spending on jewelry would be slightly lower than last year.
The rough market was quieter than in March, which was a particularly active period. Anglo American predicts that its customers will remain cautious about buying rough amid the ongoing macroeconomic uncertainty and the impact of U.S. tariffs. De Beers’ sales slid 44% year on year in the first quarter to $520 million as slow demand and a buildup of polished inventory led the midstream to restock more slowly.
DiamondBuzz
Jewelbox Expects Festive Momentum as Consumers Embrace Versatile Lab-Grown Diamond Jewellery
In an exclusive JewelBuzz interview, Vidita Kochar Jain, Co-founder, Jewelbox, shares insights on festive jewellery demand, evolving consumer preferences, the growing acceptance of lab-grown diamonds and the brand’s latest personalised diamond offering, Signed Diamonds
Jewelbox, a contemporary lab-grown diamond jewellery brand, is witnessing an evolving jewellery consumption landscape, with consumers increasingly prioritising versatile designs, personal expression and value. As festive and wedding purchases gain momentum, the brand sees growing opportunities in everyday fine jewellery, gifting and personalised diamond offerings.

In an exclusive interview with JewelBuzz, Vidita Kochar Jain, Co-Founder, Jewelbox, discusses expectations for the current festive season, changing consumer sentiment, the growing appeal of lab-grown diamonds and the brand’s latest festive offering, Signed Diamonds, which brings a personal touch to diamond jewellery.
Jb: What are your expectations with regard to jewellery sales during the current festive season?
Vidita Kochar : Every year, the festive season is a strong period for jewellery consumption, with both gifting and self-purchases contributing to demand. Jewellery continues to hold a unique position in Indian celebrations, but the nature of consumption is evolving. Customers are increasingly looking beyond traditional occasion-led purchases towards versatile pieces that can be worn regularly. At Jewelbox, we expect lab-grown diamond jewellery to benefit from this shift, particularly in categories such as everyday fine jewellery, statement pieces and gifting. We remain optimistic about festive demand and expect to see sustained momentum across our retail and digital channels.


Jb: What is the current consumer sentiment regarding jewellery purchases?
Vidita Kochar: Consumer sentiment towards jewellery remains encouraging, although purchasing behaviour is becoming increasingly discerning. Customers are placing greater emphasis on design differentiation, product quality, versatility and the overall value proposition. There is also a discernible shift towards self-purchasing, with consumers increasingly viewing jewellery as a personal expression rather than an occasion-led purchase. Within this evolving landscape, lab-grown diamonds are finding greater acceptance, particularly among younger consumers who appreciate the ability to access fine jewellery across a wider range of designs and price points.
Jb: Are you launching any festive or wedding collections this season? If yes, please share the details?
Vidita Kochar: At Jewelbox, our focus this season is on offering jewellery that brings together contemporary design, versatility and craftsmanship. Our collections cater to festive celebrations as well as weddings, with designs that transition effortlessly from special occasions to everyday wear.
With changing consumer preferences reshaping the jewellery landscape, versatility, personalisation and design-led offerings are emerging as important purchase drivers.


Jewelbox’s focus on contemporary lab-grown diamond jewellery and innovative concepts such as Signed Diamonds reflects its approach to connecting with the evolving expectations of modern consumers. As the festive and wedding seasons bring renewed opportunities for the industry, the brand remains focused on making diamond jewellery more accessible, expressive and meaningful.
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