Natural Diamond Prices Have Risen in Third Quarter
The global market saw a 3% increase in natural diamond indices as prices for smaller stones grew.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Jewelry
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The Natural Diamond Index rose by 3% during the third quarter of 2026, marking a reversal after declines in the first half of the year. Conversely, the Lab-Grown Diamond Index fell by 1.3% during the same period.
Why it matters
The shift in pricing comes as the industry prepares for the upcoming holiday season, traditionally a peak period for jewelry retail. These fluctuations reveal a divergence between natural stone values and the laboratory-grown diamond sector.
Natural round diamond prices increased by 3.5%, while fancy diamond prices rose 2.6%. Specifically, 0.50ct VS+ natural round diamonds saw an 8% price increase, whereas 2ct VS+ stones experienced a slight 0.1% decrease.
The details
Smaller natural diamonds saw price gains despite an increase in available inventory, while the tightening supply of 0.50ct stones helped drive their specific price growth. Lab-grown round diamond prices tracked downward, falling 2% overall throughout the quarter.
Timeline
Prices for many natural diamond categories declined during Q1 and Q2 2026.
The Natural Diamond Index increased by 3% during Q3 2026.
Culture Shift
The rise in natural diamond values follows the cyclical holiday diamond retail demand pattern, which dictates inventory pricing for end-of-year sales. This trend underscores a shift in how the industry positions itself against laboratory-grown competition heading into the peak season.
Consumers looking to purchase natural diamond jewelry may encounter higher price tags for smaller stones compared to previous months. Those shopping for larger 2ct diamonds may find more stable pricing given the lack of growth in that specific category.
The takeaway
Market volatility between natural and lab-grown stones remains a significant factor for those evaluating jewelry purchases. Buyers should consider that pricing trends for specific carat weights vary considerably, often dictated by supply constraints.
Further reading
Learn more about market trends in the Jewelry section.
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