Topic
diamonds
Trade Oil, LNG, Fertilisers and Diamonds at Risk from Iran's Wider Blockade Threat Beyond Strait of Hormuz
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has warned it could expand efforts to disrupt regional trade beyond the Strait of Hormuz, threatening oil, LNG, fertilisers and diamond supply chains. The Strait carries nearly 20 million barrels per day of crude and petroleum products, and over 90% of Qatar and UAE's LNG exports. Diamonds routed through India and UAE for cutting and polishing face disruption, along with petrochemicals and food shipments.
De Beers halts diamond production at flagship South African mine for two years amid market slump
De Beers is suspending production at its flagship Venetia diamond mine in South Africa for two years, citing depressed market conditions and changing consumer habits. The mine accounts for over 40% of the country's diamond output and employs more than 4,000 workers. The International Diamond Consultants' rough diamond price index has almost halved since 2022, driven by falling demand in China and competition from lab-grown diamonds.
Commodities Natural Diamond Prices Plummet Amid Lab-Grown Competition
Natural diamond prices have fallen significantly due to the rise of lab-grown diamonds, impacting miners in Sierra Leone. The closure of Koidu Holdings' mine highlights the economic challenges faced by the region.
Commodities Natural Diamond Demand Surges Among Indian Women
Natural diamond ownership among Indian women has increased from 11% in 2022 to 15% in 2025, driven by Gen Z and Millennials. The market is projected to grow at a 12% CAGR, reaching ₹1.52 lakh crore by 2030.