iReversing the steady downfall, the gems and jewellery exports jumped 27 per cent in June to $2.21 billion (₹21,011 crore) on back of demand revival, free trade agreements and clarity in the US duty structure. Imports were up 10 per cent in June to $1.72 billion (₹16,331 crore).In the June quarter, exports moved up a tad by 0.04 per cent year-on-year to $6.61 billion (₹62,589 crore) while imports declined 6 per cent to $4.97 billion (₹47,049 crore).The rise in exports provides a ray of hope for the industry which has suffered due to the geopolitical tensions and trade war across the globe.Positive holiday season salesCut and polished diamond exports were up 9 per cent last month to $847 million ($779 million) while imports declined 8 per cent at $64 million ($70 million) as the industry reduced inventory.The revival in diamond jewellery demand in the international market points to a positive holiday season sales and this sentiment is expected to gain momentum till the December quarter.Rough diamonds imports was down to $700 million ($961 million) year-on-year in June. The rough diamond imports dropped as Indian jewellery manufacturers look to clear inventory before making new purchases given the volatility in overseas demand.Polished lab grown diamond exports increased 52 per cent to $101 million ($67 million). Finished lab-grown diamonds are witnessing a good response in the international markets as consumers are adopting a price-conscious approach in response to the uncertainties. Alongside, this category has emerged as a lucrative alternative to natural diamonds for the price-sensitive audience.Revered momentGold jewellery exports were up 55 per cent at $1.09 billion ($704 million as gold prices dropped substantially in last few months.Colin Shah, MD, Kama Jewelry said the positive trend in Indian gems and jewellery exports after months of declining trajectory is a revered moment for the sector.Having said that, the impact of the global tension will continue to linger for a while, though the intensity will reduce over a period of time until absolute stabilisation, he said.The holiday season in the West and start of Indian festive season should propell major demand and provide some cushioning to the sector, he addedJune quarter trendCut and polished diamonds exports in the June quarter declined 4 per cent to $2.72 billion ($2.84 billion) while imports in the same period jumped 66 per cent to $359 million.Imports of rough diamonds declined 32 per cent to $2.16 billion ($3.20 billion) year-on-year.The export of polished lab grown diamonds increased 15 per cent to $296 million ($258 million). Gold jewellery export declined 23 per cent in the June quarter to $1.13 billion ($1.47 billion).Published on July 17, 2026