Gemfields sold 183,385 carats of higher-quality rough emeralds in Bangkok and online during May 2026, citing stable demand, cautious buying sentiment and macroeconomic pressures affecting coloured gemstone trading.

As India raises gold import duty from 6% to 15% amid economic pressure and a weakening rupee, the jewellery industry is preparing for higher prices, evolving demand, and possible market disruption, discovers Khursheed Mistry.

World Gold Council’s Q1 2026 report shows global gold demand rose 2% year-on-year as record prices reduced jewellery volumes but boosted bar, coin and ETF investment demand worldwide.

Platinum Guild International’s Q4 2025 review highlights regional market shifts, with platinum gaining share across China, India, Japan, and the US as record gold prices influence consumer demand patterns.

India’s gem and jewellery exports totalled $27.72 billion in FY2025–26, reflecting a structural shift towards diversified markets and value-added segments amid global uncertainties and declining dependence on the US market.

Gemfields released its audited 2025 Annual Report on March 26, 2026, reporting lower revenue and operational disruptions across emerald and ruby assets, alongside cost reductions and Fabergé divestment.

PNGS Reva Diamond Jewellery reported Q3 FY26 growth with revenue rising 40% QoQ and PAT 82%, driven by festive demand, increased footfall, and planned COCO store expansion across Maharashtra and North India.

Divine Solitaires introduced a Gudi Padwa offer in India from March 16–19, 2026, enabling customers to book diamond coins at Rs 2,000 with price protection to drive festive purchases.

India’s gem and jewellery exports increased 3.86% year-on-year to $ 2,680.79 million in February 2026, according to GJEPC, supported by growth in silver and platinum jewellery shipments.

Gold and silver exchange-traded funds declined up to 4% in India after crude oil prices surged and the US dollar strengthened, dampening bullion sentiment and delaying expectations of global interest-rate cuts.

Changing consumer behaviour, rising gold prices and faster buying cycles are driving demand for lightweight, high-rotation jewellery, forcing retailers to rethink inventory planning, merchandising strategies and sales approaches.

Despite a sharp contraction in shipments to the United States, India’s gems and jewellery exports show resilience, supported by strong growth in the UAE, Hong Kong and emerging global markets.

India’s gem and jewellery exports totalled $23.19 billion in April–January 2026, down 0.64% year-on-year, as US shipments fell 45%, while a new India–US trade framework restores 18% tariff access.

The EU-India FTA offers a significant boost to India’s gems and jewellery industry through reduced tariffs, easier market access, and improved competitiveness in Europe. The pact is expected to accelerate exports, attract investment, strengthen manufacturing, and reinforce India’s position as a trusted global sourcing hub for premium jewellery, says Suneeta Kaul.