DiamondBuzz
Diamond prices generally declined in September
Diamond prices generally declined in September, with notable sharp drops for round polished goods under 1 carat. The market was affected by US tariffs and the ongoing sale of De Beers, creating uncertainty.
- Key Declines:
- The RapNet Diamond Index (RAPI™) for 1-carat (round, D-H, IF-VS2) fell 0.9%.
- RAPI for 0.30- and 0.50-carat goods both dropped 6%.
- SI-clarity 1-carat rounds saw a larger decline of 2%.
- Strong Segments: Prices for larger sizes were mixed, but long fancy shapes, particularly in 2 carats and up, were “hot.” RAPI for 3 carats was flat.
- Trade & Tariffs: Demand at the Hong Kong show favored larger diamonds/fancies. US tariffs (especially the 50% rate on Indian goods) restricted overseas sales to the American market, despite steady business for independent US jewelers. The EU secured a zero-tariff deal, and Botswana is negotiating one.
- Production: Indian manufacturers cut polished production due to weak demand; August rough imports fell from July ($1.15 billion to $768.7 million).
- De Beers: The sale of Anglo American’s De Beers unit was in progress, with Botswana seeking a majority stake and Angola bidding for a minority holding.
DiamondBuzz
Richemont and Signet Jewelers Could Join Global Diamond Consortium In Bid For De Beers
Richemont, Signet Would Connect The Consortium To Key Global Growth Vectors Spanning Luxury High Jewelry and Mass-Market Retail.
The Global Diamond Consortium (GDC)
Richemont and Signet Jewelers are reported to be in talks about joining the Global Diamond Consortium (GDC), the preferred bidder for De Beers according to a Bloomberg News report.
GDC was selected in July 2026 as one of Anglo American’s preferred bidders for De Beers as part of Anglo American’s ongoing corporate restructuring.
The potential inclusion of Richemont—owner of luxury Maisons including Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels—and Signet Jewelers—the world’s largest retailer of diamond jewelry, operating brands such as Kay Jewelers, Zales, and Jared—would connect the consortium to key global growth vectors spanning luxury high jewelry and mass-market retail.
Strengthening the Natural Diamond Ecosystem: Participation by major luxury brands and global retail leaders reinforces commitment across the entire value chain—from responsible mining and manufacturing to consumer engagement.
Balanced Governance Structure: Discussions center on potential minority equity positions that would support long-term category growth while maintaining appropriate separation between ownership and commercial strategy.
Broad Stakeholder Participation: The consortium continues to advance talks with host governments, including discussions with the Government of Botswana regarding a potential increase in its equity share in De Beers from 15% to approximately 25%, alongside participation from private investors and southern African host nations.
Discussions between GDC, Richemont, Signet, and participating government stakeholders remain ongoing. Terms of any potential participation, including the size of equity interests, have not been finalized and remain subject to regulatory approvals and definitive documentation.
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