According to the Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC), polished diamond prices in the world's largest diamond trading hub rose +12% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2026.
Rough diamond prices fell sharply before cutting — fell +27% over the same period, dropping to $92 per carat from $95 a year ago. That gap between falling input costs and rising polished prices tells a clear story.
What Antwerp's Numbers Really Mean
When polished prices rise, it means one thing: the retail price ceiling is rising too. Because cutting, polishing, and retailing diamonds is expensive, labor, certification, logistics, marketing, and retail margins all add to the final price. When rough supply is abundant and cheap, polishers and retailers don't automatically pass those savings on — they hold margins steady and wait for demand to justify higher polished prices.
In other words: miners are earning less, but jewellers are still charging you more.
The Diamond Recovery Is Real
The AWDC firm noticed a rebound in demand in thousands of carats. Sales returned in December 2025 and strengthened through Q1 2026. Trade volume in Antwerp grew 19% year-on-year overall, with rough imports up 30%.
When demand rises and prices rise with it, buyers lose negotiating power. The window for buying at a reasonable price is closing.
Meanwhile, Lab-Grown Diamonds Keep Delivering
While natural diamonds are climbing, lab-grown diamonds have held steady — and they offer something the natural market can't promise: predictable value per dollar spent. Take our Timeless Radiance 2.04ct Oval-Cut Lab-Grown Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold as a perfect example — exceptional size and brilliance at a fraction of the natural diamond price.
| Under $1,000 buys you in each category | Natural Diamond | Lab-Grown Diamond |
|---|---|---|
| Typical carat weight at $1,000 | 0.30–0.40 ct | 1.0–1.2 ct |
| Cut quality | Good–Very Good | Excellent |
| Clarity | SI1–SI2 | VS1–VS2 |
| Certification | GIA / GIA | IGI / IGI |
| Investment value narrative | Rare and finite | Beauty without compromise |
Ready to see what your budget can get you? Browse our full lab-grown diamond ring collection →
The Knot Data Says the Market Has Already Decided
Before this latest price news, couples were already choosing lab-grown. The Knot's Bridal Wellness Study 2026 — surveying more than 10,000 U.S. couples married in 2025 — found that lab-grown diamonds now account for the majority of all engagement ring purchases.
So, Should You Buy a Lab-Grown Diamond Now?
With natural diamonds on a recovery trajectory, the price gap between natural and lab-grown will likely continue to widen. A natural diamond that costs $5,000 today could cost $5,500 next year. A comparable lab-grown diamond? Probably the same price — or potentially lower as manufacturing efficiency improves.
The best time to buy a lab-grown diamond isn't in the future. It's now — before demand for them rises too.
FAQ
Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds?
Yes. Lab-grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds — the only difference is their origin. Both are made of crystallized carbon and certified by the same gemological institutes (IGI, GIA).
Will Lab-Grown Diamonds Hold Value Over Time?
Lab-grown diamonds decline in resale value over time, like most consumer goods. However, premium lab-grown diamonds — especially those with excellent cut, color, and clarity — have seen price stabilization. The key is focusing on quality over quantity.
Does Julysnow certify its diamonds?
Yes. Each lab-grown diamond comes with an IGI grading report, confirming the stone's 4C specifications. Certification is included with every purchase — see it in action with our Royal Radiance 1.01ct Round Brilliant Halo Ring, a customer favourite.
Can I resell a lab-grown diamond?
Lab-grown diamonds can be resold, though typically at a discount to retail price — similar to most consumer products. Julysnow offers a lifetime warranty and 30-day returns for your peace of mind.
Sources
- Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC) — Polished Diamond Price Recovery
- JCK Wedding News — "Lab-Grown Diamonds Take Command of the Engagement Ring Market" — February 2026
- The Knot Real Weddings Study 2026, surveying 10,000+ U.S. couples married in 2025
Also explore: Diamond Bands | Diamond Necklaces
Looking for certified lab-grown diamond jewelry? Julysnow offers IGI-certified pieces in 18K gold and platinum — with transparent pricing and worldwide shipping.
