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.
DiamondBuzz
Akoirah By Augmont Celebrates The Sibling Bond With Laboratory-Grown Diamond Rakhis
Contemporary, Customisable Rakhis Blend Traditional Symbolism With Modern Fine Jewellery Sensibilities For A Meaningful Raksha Bandhan Gift.
This Raksha Bandhan, Akoirah by Augmont brings a contemporary expression to one of India’s most cherished celebrations with its new collection of laboratory-grown diamond rakhis, combining traditional symbolism with modern jewellery design. Created for the evolving Indian consumer who seeks meaningful and distinctive festive gifting, the collection transforms the traditional rakhi into a keepsake that goes beyond the occasion with customisable designs available in options such as initials, zodiac signs, and other personalised motifs tailored to individual style and preference.
The collection features an assortment of handcrafted designs incorporating meaningful motifs such as the evil eye, Swastika and Ik Onkar, alongside personalised initial-led designs. Each motif brings its own symbolism, representing protection, prosperity, faith and personal connection while laboratory-grown diamonds add a refined, contemporary touch to the traditional expression of siblinghood.
Designed across earthy and versatile colour palettes, the rakhis pair beaded elements in shades of black, brown and blue with diamond-studded motifs. From the understated elegance of a diamond initial rakhi to statement-making designs featuring the evil eye and spiritual symbols, the collection offers options that cater to different personalities and styles.
With this collection, Akoirah by Augmont seeks to elevate festive gifting by bringing fine jewellery sensibilities into a traditionally rooted celebration. The rakhis are designed not merely as festive accessories, but as meaningful pieces that can be cherished beyond Raksha Bandhan, reflecting the brand’s approach to making jewellery more personal, contemporary and relevant to everyday occasions.
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