India’s diamond export performance showed contrasting trends in September 2026, with polished lab-grown diamond shipments recording strong growth while exports of cut and polished natural diamonds declined, according to data released by the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC).
Exports of polished lab-grown diamonds surged 40.72% year-on-year to US$151.43 million in September, compared with US$107.61 million in the same month last year. In contrast, exports of cut and polished natural diamonds fell 5.44% to US$1.29 billion, reflecting continued pressure on the traditional diamond segment.
The divergent performance came as India’s overall gems and jewellery exports rose 9.43% to US$2.95 billion during September, supported by strong demand for studded gold jewellery and lab-grown diamonds. Studded gold jewellery exports increased 50.23% to US$812.62 million during the month.
During April–September FY27, polished lab-grown diamond exports grew 17.08% to US$685.10 million. Meanwhile, natural diamond exports declined 6.96% in value to US$5.81 billion, although export volumes increased 4.64% to 8.4 million carats.
The figures highlight the changing dynamics of India’s diamond industry, with lab-grown products gaining export momentum while natural diamonds continue to face challenges in global markets. Exporters will be watching international demand, pricing trends and trade conditions to assess whether the growth in lab-grown diamonds can be sustained in the coming months.