U.S. January Polished Imports Jump 12.71%

If January imports of polished diamonds to the U.S. are an indication of the year to come, the diamond industry is starting to regain its former luster. Imports grew 12.71 percent to $1.44 billion from $1.277 billion in January 2006.

In terms of volume, the U.S. imported 1,398,275 carats, declining 5.87 percent compared to January 2006, pushing the average price per carat up 19.73 percent to $1,029.68.

Israel   continued to be the U.S.’s leading source of polished diamonds by value, shipping $765.95 million worth of goods with an average value of $2,309.02 p/c (per carat).

India was the lead supplier by volume, exporting 833,514 carats worth $306.25 million to the U.S., an average of $367.42 p/c.

Imports of rough diamonds rose in value 23.08 percent to $61.32 million from $49.83 million in January 2006. In weight, imports of rough decreased to 50,072 carats from 82,799 carats in January 2006, a 39.53 percent fall. Average price more than doubled to $1224.73 p/c.

South Africa was the leading source of rough to the U.S. in volume and value, supplying 26,245 carats worth $29.95 million. By average price, Israel led the list, shipping to the U.S. 103 carats valued at $846,005, an average of $8,213.64 p/c.