DIAMOND INSIDER INDUSTRY UPDATE

Market steady. Strong US demand for 2 ct. and larger, G-I, VS-SI diamonds in rounds and long fancies. 1.50 to 1.99 ct. improving. Marquises and antique cuts selling at high prices. Prices continue to recover in round, 0.30 to 0.89 ct. collection goods. Rough prices firm in 5 ct. and above. GIA to launch cut grade for marquises, ovals and pears, add fluorescence comments to reports. Signet estimates natural diamonds accounting for 70% of overall engagement-market revenue, 90%+ of $5,000+ range. Rectangular modified brilliant, 10.02-carat, fancy-intense-blue, VS2 diamond sells for $9M ($864,271/ct.) at Sotheby’s NY.