DiamondBuzz
Wealthy Russians Surge in Investment-Grade Diamond Purchases Amid Market Uncertainty
Demand for polished diamonds up by 60% as individuals diversify portfolios with gemstones following VAT abolition and growing financial volatility.
Wealthy Russians are increasingly turning to investment-grade diamonds, with purchases of polished stones rising by 60% last year, according to VTB, the country’s second-largest bank. This surge in demand is attributed to the government’s decision to abolish VAT on diamond purchases, which has made gemstones a more attractive investment option.
Oksana Semenenko, vice president at VTB and head of its private banking division, explained that the rarity and uniqueness of diamonds make them especially appealing during times of rising financial market instability and tighter investment restrictions. Many affluent clients are now incorporating alternative investments, including diamonds, into their portfolios, typically allocating 5-10% of their assets to these tangible assets for diversification.
This shift comes amid increasing sanctions from the G7 and restrictions on Russian currency, which have impacted Russian diamond exports. In response, Alrosa, the state-run diamond mining giant, is turning to alternative markets to sell its goods. The company’s Diamond Exclusive program focuses on polishing its largest and highest-quality diamonds, particularly stones of 3 carats or more, to be sold directly to investors through partnerships with VTB and other financial institutions.
BrandBuzz
Natural Diamond Council Launches World Diamond Day on April 8, 2026
A new global moment to share the stories behind natural diamonds on April 8.
The Natural Diamond Council (NDC) introduces World Diamond Day on April 8, 2026, a global movement that brings people together through the stories behind natural diamonds.
On this day, everyone is invited to participate, from those who work with diamonds every day to those who wear, gift, or admire them. World Diamond Day is about sharing the personal and meaningful moments that natural diamonds represent.
Across social media, participants are encouraged to post a photo or short video that captures what natural diamonds mean to them, whether it is a milestone, a memory, a piece of jewelry you love, or the journey behind it.
On April 8, simply share your story using #WorldDiamondDay and #NaturalDiamonds to join a global wave of voices celebrating something authentic.

Stories can take many forms:
– Personal moments such as engagements, anniversaries, and heirlooms
– The journey of a diamond from origin to artistry
– Positive impact in communities, education, and conservation
– Design, craftsmanship, and finished creations
World Diamond Day is a collective moment and not a campaign. It is shaped by the people who participate, from personal milestones to the communities diamonds uplift and transform. It is a chance to see natural diamonds through the lens of real people and real stories shared around the world in real time.
In a world where so much feels easily replicated and fast, natural diamonds are enduring symbols of love and connection. Formed over billions of years, they carry memory and human meaning. World Diamond Day brings those stories into view from every corner of the world.
Everyone is encouraged to take part by sharing a story that feels personal and true. Organizations and businesses can also amplify the movement by inviting their teams, partners, and communities to participate.
Worn. Given. Passed down. Never forgotten.
On April 8, the story of natural diamonds belongs to everyone.
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