The diamond market was seasonally slow in February, with prices strengthening for round, D to G, IF to VS1 goods in most sizes, Rapaport said. Other categories showed mixed trends. Prices were stable for elongated fancy shapes, and increased for those weighing 2 carats or more. These trends were due to an ongoing reduction of polished inventory, it noted.
The RapNet Diamond Index (RAPI™) for 1-carat diamonds — reflecting round, D to H, IF to VS2 goods — increased 0.2% in February. The index for 0.30-carat diamonds rose 3.7%, with strong demand for D to E, IF to VVS1 qualities. The 0.50-carat RAPI went up 0.2%, and 3-carat prices climbed 0.3%.
American retail remained stable. Valentine’s Day sales met expectations. US dealers’ restocking was selective, creating shortages of in-demand items while less-desirable goods accumulated in inventories. The Tucson shows performed well, with Rapaport launching the RapNet Gem Trading Network in partnership with the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA).
The Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show kicked off this week, exceeding low expectations in the loose diamond section. Prices remained firm at the show’s start, with strong participation from international buyers, though Chinese attendance was relatively low.
In industry developments, Botswana and De Beers reached a new agreement on 25 February. Under the deal, Botswana will receive 30% of diamonds from their joint venture, Debswana, for the next five years, increasing to 40% in the following five years. De Beers also committed to a diamond development fund aimed at economic diversification and job creation, with an estimated investment of $75 million.
Anglo American reduced De Beers’ book value by $2.88 billion to $4.1 billion during the month, reporting a 23% decline in revenue to $3.29 billion and a $288 million net loss. De Beers maintained steady prices at its 24 February sight. Secondary-market prices increased for rough below 0.50 carats.
On the regulatory front, the European Union has postponed its diamond traceability rules until January 2026, while the US delayed the implementation of its controversial “country of mining” requirement for polished diamond imports.