Investing
Investor's Corner

The diamond industry is a global market, which, unlike most industries where the local economic and political situation can greatly affect prices, diamond prices vary little around the world. The ‘Four C’s provide a grading system that supports a standard pricing system. Diamonds are also universally quoted in dollars, removing any currency effects. However, the craftsmanship and labour costs to design and set diamonds are subject to local conditions. A new ‘C’ has been added to their criteria which guarantees that the diamonds have not come from conflict zones.

13.39 carat rare blue diamond
Christie’s Images Ltd. 2009

This 13.39 carat rare blue diamond ring sold for $8.7 million in May 2008 at Christie’s in Geneva.

 

In contrast to prices, preferences for diamonds vary greatly among cultures and consumers. Coloured diamonds have gained favour in recent years. Whilst yellow is the most common of the coloured diamonds, pink and blue have become the fashion.

In certain South-east Asian countries carat weight is most important, whereas in Hong Kong and Japan the colour and clarity is the main concern.

 

 

 

Diamonds

Although there has historically been a demand for diamonds that exceeds supply, causing substantial increases in value, there is no guarantee that this will be the case in the future. Demand for diamonds of a particular type may be affected by regional or world trends and tastes.
 


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