Key Market Activity

• United States (US): Demand is steady as the holiday season approaches. Shoppers are especially keen on large diamonds (2 carats and up), with long, slim fancy shapes being the most popular.
• International Trading: Global trading centers are quiet due to recent Jewish holidays.
• India: The market is slow due to two main reasons:
  • New US taxes (tariffs) are slowing down exports.
  • Factories are ramping up production before the major Diwali holiday break.
• Trade Numbers (September): India’s raw diamond imports went up by 19% (to $\$924$ million), and its finished diamond exports rose by 6% (to $\$1.4$ billion).
• Luxury Sales: LVMH, a major luxury group, saw its stock rise after reporting that watch and jewelry sales were up 2% in the third quarter.

Diamond Shape Trends (Fancies)

Long, non-round diamond shapes—known as “fancies”—are selling better than traditional round diamonds in 2-carat and larger sizes.

• Most Popular Shapes: Oval, Marquise, and Emerald cuts are in high demand.
• High Premiums for Long Shapes: Long Cushions are easy to sell and cost 20% to 25% more than square Cushion cuts.
• Shape Value: Marquise cuts are the most expensive of the fancy shapes. In the US, Ovals cost 5% to 10% more than Pear shapes.
• Quality is Key: Diamonds that are cut very well are hard to find and sell for higher prices (premiums). Shapes with poor proportions are difficult to sell.