Russell Mehta reflects on the diamond industry’s evolution, noting a shift from romantic experiences to transactional purchases due to increased transparency and lab-grown alternatives. While the market faces fluctuations, natural diamonds retain intrinsic value, rarity, and emotional significance, distinguishing them from commodities like gold.

Consumer perspectives have shifted significantly over the 40years that I have been in the diamond business. When I started out in the early 1980s, buying a diamond was a romantic, emotional experience. Its mystique was linked to its rarity, its perceived uniqueness, and the joy of discovery during the shopping process. This traditional view of diamonds has shifted with the rise of certification, transparency, and the accessibility offered by the internet. The diamond market has become more commoditized, where consumers can compare prices, examine flaws, and get a better understanding of what they are buying, often without stepping into a store. The process of acquiring a diamond, once filled with romance, has become increasingly transactional.

Recent reports have raised doubts over diamonds as viable investments, often comparing them to gold or other financial assets. Unlike other luxury items, such as designer bags, diamonds’ value comes from a combination of art, history, and sentiment—an acquisition that can be passed down through generations. I own a diamond from my grandfather, and its value to me is immeasurable; no price tag could ever capture its significance.

Unlike gold, with which diamonds are erroneously compared to, or art, diamonds occupy a middle ground. While not as liquid as gold or as illiquid as art, natural diamonds retain intrinsic value over time.

For example, I have collected numerous works of art, but only a handful have appreciated significantly over two decades. This unpredictability does not make the art any less valuable to me, but it highlights the varied nature of investments. I cherish the stories behind my art collection—how I discovered each artist and acquired each piece alongside my wife. That does not mean diamonds do not serve as a form of security in times of crisis. History has shown that in turbulent moments, diamonds have been portable assets that can be used to re-establish stability.

The value of diamonds can fluctuate, but it doesn’t depreciate—nor does it get damaged—as quickly as other commodities. According to a Bain & Co report, on an average, prices have increased by 3% year-on-year over the last 35 years.

The rarity of natural diamonds will only grow, as their supply is limited. No significant new diamond deposits have been discovered in the past two decades and the current mines are gradually depleting. The natural pink diamonds that the Argyle mine in Australia produced over 30 years, for instance, are now coveted collectors’ items, providing extraordinary returns as the Argyle mine is now closed.

The introduction of lab-grown diamonds has added a layer of variety to the industry. These diamonds, created in a controlled environment, are more affordable and abundant compared to natural diamonds. While they share the same physical properties, they lack the rarity, preciousness, and emotional weight of natural diamonds. They follow Moore’s Law—as technology improves, their production becomes cheaper, their quality better, and their size larger—further reinforcing their status as a manufactured commodity, rather than a unique and naturally-available gem.

Their rise reflects the broader trend of commoditization in the diamond industry. Some consumers may be drawn to the lower price point of lab-grown diamonds. For example, it may work for the 25-27 year-old on his—dare I say—first marriage proposal. But for his 10th wedding anniversary, his gift would be the real thing, a natural diamond.

After an unprecedented boom in 2021 and 2022, the market has contracted, with the value of global retail-studded diamond jewellery declining from $90 billion to approximately $75 billion in 2024. This was due in part to slowing luxury demand in China and some cannibalisation from lab-grown diamonds in the U.S. While the diamond market may go through its cycles, the emotional and lasting value of real diamonds will continue to endure.

I see this as an industry that’s in the business of bringing joy to consumers, through birthdays, engagements, anniversaries and gifting. Life is an assimilation of memories, time spent with loved ones and natural diamonds are attached to landmarks in life. It’s the only commodity that’s a brand in itself.

                                                 

–  News Courtesy-TOI

by Jignesh Mehta – MD & Founder, Divine Solitaires

In a world of transient trends and mass-produced possessions, there remain a few timeless treasures that carry a value far beyond their material worth. A natural diamond solitaire is one such enduring symbol — an extraordinary gift of nature that offers more than just aesthetic appeal or technical excellence. It represents emotion, legacy, and an investment destined to shine through generations.

While the classic 4Cs — Cut, Clarity, Colour, and Carat — have long been the benchmarks of diamond selection, today’s discerning consumers are seeking more. Conscious buying behaviours and evolving consumer preferences are redefining luxury, and in this dynamic environment, the natural diamond solitaire continues to hold a singular, unassailable allure.

Emotional and Legacy Value: A Diamond Beyond Compare

A diamond purchase is rarely an impulse. It is often tied to significant personal milestones — engagements, anniversaries, or achievements that mark new beginnings. Increasingly, consumers are choosing solitaires not only to celebrate relationships but also to honour their own journey. Be it career milestones, personal growth, or financial independence, the emotional resonance attached to a solitaire makes it a cherished possession.

Legacy gifting is another rising trend. Families are investing in solitaire diamonds not merely as heirlooms but as financial assets for the next generation. These stones carry the dual value of sentiment and security, ensuring the bond of familial love endures alongside wealth preservation.

At Divine Solitaires, we have observed a deepening of this emotional connection over the years, as buyers seek possessions with meaning, permanence, and personal significance.

Light, Precision, and the Art of Brilliance

A diamond’s true magic lies not in its size but in the way it interacts with light. Its brilliance, fire, and scintillation, collectively termed as light performance which determine its visual splendour. Every cut, every facet, and every angle contribute to this captivating play of light.

At Divine Solitaires, we use advanced optical analysis to guarantee that every diamond meets the highest standards of light performance. Going beyond the conventional triple excellent cut, each of our stones showcases the perfect 8 Hearts and 8 Arrows pattern — a hallmark of flawless symmetry, alignment, and proportion that maximises sparkle under every light and setting.

Integrity in Certification and Grading

For the modern luxury consumer, fewer but finer possessions define true indulgence. Precision, authenticity, and transparency have become non-negotiable expectations. Divine Solitaires ensures that every solitaire undergoes a rigorous 123 parameters quality check process aligned with the highest global standards.

Our commitment to trust is further reinforced through detailed quality certification and India’s first-ever Nationwide Standard & Price Index for solitaires. This pioneering initiative brings unprecedented structure, consistency, and credibility to solitaire pricing — offering buyers the reassurance of lasting value and resale integrity.

The Unreported Factors:

Certain diamond characteristics like Hearts & Arrows, Luster, Overtones, Light Performance remain unseen to the untrained eye but significantly influence both aesthetic appeal and investment value. Excessive fluorescence, for example, can cause a diamond to appear hazy under UV light, while internal graining may affect its visual purity.

At Divine Solitaires, our meticulous curation process excludes diamonds with such imperfections. Our selection process ensures that every solitaire we offer upholds the highest standards of quality and educating consumers along the way about these finer, often overlooked nuances of diamond selection.

A Symbol in Beauty, Meaning, and Legacy

A Divine Solitaires diamond is more than an ordinary diamond. It is a symbol of technical brilliance, ethical assurance, and enduring emotional significance. Every stone is a promise to shine not just in the light, but through the memories, milestones, and moments that shape a lifetime.

As the world of luxury evolves, one truth remains: a natural diamond solitaire will always transcend its 4Cs, holding its place as an emblem of beauty, meaning, and legacy.

Diamonds have always symbolised elegance and luxury. Haven’t they captivated us all with their brilliance and the shine in all those love stories? We usually see the heroine blushing over that classic round brilliant cut in the cinescreen. But that’s an old story!

We’re now seeing the revival of vintage and rare cuts in diamonds. Celebrities are opting for lesser-known yet stunning cuts. And in a world where trends change quickly, rare diamond cuts are much sought after. There is so much to choose too these days  – from vintage-inspired to avant-garde styles, you can find the diamond cut that best suits your persona.

As Marilyn Monroe famously said, “Diamonds are a girl’s best friend,” and now, more than ever, these best friends come in all shapes and styles, ready to tell their own unique stories. Here we have listed out our rare cuts in diamonds that you need to know. Let’s dive in. 

Big Rocks and the Big Stars

What’s driving celebrities to embrace these rare diamond cuts? It’s the allure of individuality and craftsmanship. Their bold choices redefine diamond trends, proving that brilliance comes in many forms. From exquisite solitaires to striking emerald and cushion cuts, these unique designs are setting a new standard for modern engagement rings. One notable mention would be Anushka Sharma’s elegant solitaire diamond ring, reported to be worth a crore, caught the attention of jewellery enthusiasts worldwide; setting trends in modern engagement ring choices. Each cut tells a story; one of elegance, opulence and deep appreciation of exceptional designs. 

The Emerald cut – For the Royal in You

It is the ideal choice for those who desire a piece of jewellery that is both classic and contemporary, understated yet undeniably captivating. Characterised by its rectangular shape with bevelled corners, this cut is a masterpiece of subtlety, designed to improve the diamond’s clarity rather than relying on excessive brilliance. Unlike more traditional cuts that emphasise sparkle, the Emerald cut showcases the diamond’s intrinsic beauty, allowing its inner character to shine through.

The allure of the Emerald cut lies in its step facets—wide, flat planes that cascade down the stone like a staircase. This unique structure allows light to enter the diamond in a more subdued, refined manner, producing a gentle, consistent glow rather than an explosive sparkle. Often associated with the glamour of the Art Deco era, the Emerald cut embodies the pinnacle of sophistication, drawing inspiration from architectural design and symmetry. It exudes a sense of timelessness and refinement, making it an enduring choice for those with a discerning eye for fine jewellery.

The Pear Shape – For the Discerning Few 

Many celebrities have been spotted flaunting the pear cut diamond ring. This beautiful cut perfectly reflects her unique style, adding a touch of grace and timeless beauty to her engagement. The pear shape continues to be one of the most beloved and striking diamond cuts in the world of fine jewellery.

The Pear shape diamond, also called the teardrop shape, is an elegant cut that combines the brilliance of a round diamond with the elongated form of a marquise. It has a rounded end that tapers into a point, creating a graceful design that exudes sophistication and femininity. 

And it’s the pear cut’s curves that makes the diamond’s sparkle even brighter. Its unique tapered design allows light to reflect beautifully, creating a stunning display of fire and brilliance. The elongated shape also gives the illusion of a larger stone, making it perfect for those who want a bigger diamond at a lesser price tag. One major benefit of the pear shape is its versatility. It looks great in many settings, from solitaires to toi et moi, making it a timeless choice. Its elongated form is flattering on many hand shapes. The asymmetry of the pear shape adds a modern touch, making it a refreshing alternative to traditional cuts.

Diamonds have always been symbolic, a metaphor even for being your best, just like how a stone is polished and cut to become a brilliant diamond. It has also become a canvas for self-expression too. And these rare diamond cuts allow the wearer to showcase their unique persona in the most understated way possible. So go ahead, your perfect and rare diamond cut is out there – waiting to tell your sparkling story.