Welcome back to the Diamonds Hatton Garden blog where we bring you the latest from our Hatton Garden jewellers. We continue with our ongoing series and look into the latest developments within the diamond industry and share our insights. Our weekly report examines the global diamond market for both loose white diamonds and loose fancy coloured diamonds and details from mine to shop current pricing and demand.
In the latest developments across the world, the big news within the industry is Sotheby’s decision to allow cryptocurrency within their jewellery auctions. Following on from a successful and record Banksy auction last month, the esteemed auction house are expanding their acceptance of crypto to allowing bidding and payments.
The fancy cut market is becoming increasingly stable across most sizes as demand grows. This trend is particularly noticeable as since the beginning of the pandemic, consumers are looking for better value and forgoing traditional round (also known as the brilliant cut) shape. In particular, there is a noticeable rise in orders for Ovals, Pears, Emeralds, Princesses, long Radiants and Marquises. This increase in popularity has witnessed both Ovals and Cushions closing the price gap with Rounds.
Across the pond in the United States there is steady trading and, as we reported last week, rounds and ovals continue to be the most popular shapes with buyers. Specifically, GIA 1 to 2.50 ct., F-H, VS-SIs are moving well. The US market is often characterised by the demand for more classic shapes compared to the rest of the world.
The increase in trading is also felt in Belgium, however, there is a sense of skepticism that the momentum can be maintained. Trading between the small European nation and both the Chinese and US is improving and stable.
Israel, a traditional heart of the diamond market, reports that dealers are upbeat with steady US orders fueling a buoyant market. With the increase in inventory and rough diamonds, there is uncertainty regarding prices as buyers are hesitant to accept higher level -previously driven by scarcity. To combat this, suppliers are keeping discounts firm since rough diamond remains expensive. With Indian moving back to a sense of normality despite the pandemic, polished inventory is gradually rising with access to 0.30 to 1.99 ct. goods notable.
Whilst India struggles to contain national and regional outbreaks of Coronavirus, polished suppliers are optimistic as shortages and steady demand support prices. Good export orders and robust local trading as both national and international markets reopen. As seen in other countries, curved fancy shapes show a strong demand, and princess cuts improving in better colours.
In Hong Kong we see that the dealer market stable but slightly lagging behind other global centers. Trading at the current movement is mainly focused on 0.30 to 0.50 ct., D-H, VS-SI and 1 to 1.50 ct., G-J, SI goods. With an improving local economy, jewelers are gaining confidence although a lack of tourism is limiting sales.
Fancy coloured diamonds and those looking to buy fancy pink diamonds in particular, remain a popular choice for those looking for a different type of diamond. In terms of popular items, diamond engagement rings, tennis bracelets and diamond earrings are picking up in sales as love is in the air.
We hope our look into the global diamond market is useful and, for any enquiries or advice, contact our team of family jewellers via info@diamondshg.co.uk or via +44 7951 060238.