Diamondtrading

Diamondtrading refers to the buying and selling of diamonds, including rough stones, polished diamonds, and related products, for use in jewelry, industrial applications, or investment. The market operates largely through over-the-counter channels rather than a single centralized exchange, with prices influenced by supply, demand, and quality characteristics.

The diamond supply chain typically runs from miners and rough dealers to cutters and polishers, wholesalers, and retailers. Major trading centers include Antwerp, New York, Mumbai, and Dubai, with significant activity in Hong Kong and Tel Aviv. The market relies on grading reports and price references: laboratories such as GIA, IGI, and AGS certify quality; pricing often uses the Rapaport Price List as a widely cited reference.

Valuation is driven by the 4 Cs—carat, cut, color, and clarity—along with other attributes such as fluorescence, polish, symmetry, lab certification, and geographic origin. For rough stones, factors include carat weight, shape, and crystal clarity. Market participants use combinations of certificates and expert appraisals to negotiate value.

Ethical considerations are addressed through initiatives like the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme, which aims to stem the trade in conflict diamonds, though its effectiveness is debated. Increasingly, traders also distinguish natural diamonds from lab-grown stones, which have become a separate and growing segment within the market. Responsible sourcing and traceability are ongoing industry concerns.