there was a lull in the diamond markets, although the sentiment of market participants remained positive, Rapaport said in a press release. Demand for diamonds fell, as jewelry companies reduced purchases of diamonds, replenishing their reserves during the first quarter. The demand for polished diamonds was selective and depended heavily on prices. In the Far Eastern markets, a lull prevailed, and demand for gold jewelry was cautious, while in the US there was a stable demand. Dynamics of diamond trade during the month was uneven, as many dealers went on vacation during the Easter holidays.
In April 2014, the price index RapNet Diamond Index (RAPI ™) for diamonds weighing 1 carat fell by 0.5%, while RAPI for diamonds weighing 0.3 carats and 0.5 carats decreased by 1.3% and 0.9% respectively. Diamonds in weight of 3 carats for the accounting period have fallen in price on 1%.
The monthly Rapaport report for May 2014, entitled "Trade shows", points to a good demand for diamonds 0.3-0.5 carats of SI purity, which have been in short supply due to the delays in classification that the Gemological Institute of America has faced in recent months Institute of America, GIA).
Liquidity in the diamond production centers remains limited, as the turnover of diamonds slowed due to delays in the GIA, and Indian banks tightened credit terms.