Your first monthly update: tariff relief in the US, Surat’s holiday outlook, wholesale price trends, and insights from fairs across Antwerp, Bangkok, and Hong Kong — plus how GET and the new Digital Diamond Certificate deliver trusted transparency.
We’re excited to launch our new monthly update, bringing you important market news and our unique insights from across the global diamond trade.
September saw a surge in activity as fairs reopened, sourcing accelerated, and inventories on GET were refreshed from Antwerp to Bangkok. With sustainability and G7 traceability now in sharp focus, buyers are demanding transparency and provenance. GET-Diamonds — together with our newly launched Digital Diamond Certificate — provides the trusted tools to list, search, and connect with confidence.
Looking ahead, all eyes turn to the Istanbul Jewelry Show (10–13 October). With Diwali, Dhanteras, and year-end demand approaching, now is the time to update your natural diamond stock — from investment-grade stones to calibrated goods for bridal and festive production.
State of the Market
Tariff Relief Possible
Natural polished diamonds from Europe are now exempt from US import tariffs under a new US-EU trade agreement, removing the 15% duty retroactive to September 1. AWDC CEO Karen Rentmeesters said the move boosts Antwerp’s competitiveness and sets a precedent for other diamond hubs to seek similar relief. Diamonds were earlier added to the list of products eligible for US tariff exemptions, but the waiver would only apply under existing trade agreements.
Surat's Holiday Uncertainty
Surat’s diamond manufacturers are uncertain about prospects for the US holiday season as India faces 50% import tariffs, while preparing polished supply ahead of the late-October Diwali break. In August, India’s rough imports rose 14% year on year to $769 million, while polished exports slipped 6% to $972 million, according to the GJEPC.
Wholesale Price Trends
Polished diamond wholesale asking prices
firmed in the first half of 2025, with the GET Diamond Wholesale Market Index rising 5.6%. The gain was driven by a sharp 14.5% spike in June, as trading surged ahead of the original July 9 deadline for reciprocal U.S. tariffs, later extended to August 7. Market activity eased to more cautious levels in July and August, in line with the typical US and European summer slowdown.
Around the World
The diamond, gems, and jewelry trade-show circuit returned in full force in September after the summer lull. VicenzaOro in Italy set the tone with its trademark mix of innovation and design, drawing 3% more visitors than last year. The GIA-AGS Converge 2025 in Carlsbad reinforced its standing as one of the industry’s most insightful seminars and premier networking hubs.
The month wrapped up in Hong Kong with Jewellery & Gem World, Asia’s flagship fair, hosting more than 3,000 exhibitors from 45 countries.
Botswana, Angola, Bid for De Beers
The Government of Botswana plans to take a controlling stake in De Beers as Anglo American prepares to sell its 85% holding, President Duma Boko told Bloomberg Television. Botswana, which currently owns 15%, could lift its share above 50% with backing from partners including the Oman Sovereign Wealth Fund. Meanwhile, Angola confirmed that state miner Endiama has submitted a fully financed bid for a strategic minority stake, envisioning a pan-African consortium with Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa.
Rough Supply Watch
The rough auction circuit was active in September, with tenders in Antwerp, Dubai, and Johannesburg. Attention now turns to the next De Beers sight on October 6–10, where larger supply is expected as manufacturers seek goods to fill anticipated holiday orders.
Trade Deals
Finestar Jewellery & Diamonds opened a new manufacturing facility in Johannesburg, with South Africa’s Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe and De Beers VP of Diamond Trading Paul Rowley in attendance. Meanwhile, Stargems Group partnered with former Rosy Blue Belgium CEO Raj Mehta to launch a polished-distribution venture out of Dubai. Mehta will serve as CEO, overseeing global sales and expansion into Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, and India.
Magnificent Jewels on Offer
The auction houses unveiled some spectacular pieces coming to market. The Desert Rose, a 31.86-carat pear-shaped fancy vivid orange diamond, will be a star attraction at Sotheby’s Abu Dhabi Collectors Week in December, carrying an estimate of $5 million to $7 million. Stealing the spotlight, however, is The Mellon Blue, a 9.51-carat fancy vivid blue diamond set to headline Christie’s Magnificent Jewels sale in Geneva this November, where it is expected to fetch $20 million to $30 million.
Festive Focus: Diwali & Dhanteras Demand
As Diwali and Dhanteras approach, demand is rising for loose natural diamonds destined for bridal and festive jewellery. Retailers and manufacturers on GET are actively enquiring for:
Investment-grade stones and occasion goods — from side-stones and matched pairs to solitaires.
Family gifting demand — steady orders for smaller certified stones to be set in earrings, pendants, and bracelets.
Design-driven sourcing — calibrated sizes for temple-inspired motifs and contemporary bridal designs.
Member tip: Upload inventory early, ensure full certificate data accompanies every stone, and use GET’s enhanced filters to make stock more visible to buyers.
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