The diamond market is showing early signs of recovery in 2026, with strengthening demand across several size categories following a challenging 2025, according to TAGS' latest market report.
The report noted that the successful Christmas and Valentine's Day sales periods in the United States provided a positive start to the year.
It said stones over 10 carats and in the 5-to-10 ct range remain strong, while the 8-gr to 5-ct segment is showing improvement.
The 3-to-6 grs category remains stable with slowly returning demand, and even goods below 3 grs—which had been struggling—are seeing some renewed interest.
Rapaport's decision on March 20 to reduce polished prices on smaller sizes surprised the market, as those categories had shown stability in recent weeks.
However, Rapaport later explained the move was an adjustment to address internal misalignments rather than a reflection of recent trading values.
TAGS reported no reduction in prices offered at its recent sales event.
TAGS held its latest tender in South Africa from March 17 to 23, welcoming approximately 90 international companies from major manufacturing centres.
The event presented nearly 8,000 ct of goods across a full-size range, including high-quality marine and mine production from South African mining partners.
Exceptional stones sold included a D-colour 30-ct clean stone and two fancy vivid yellow stones of 27 and 46 cts.
Overall, TAGS sold over 80% of the goods presented to around 30 buying companies, exceeding suppliers' price expectations.
Mathew Nyaungwa, Editor-In-Chief, Rough & Polished
