Market
Estate and secondhand natural diamonds are a growing share of enquiries
Buyers asking specifically about previously-owned natural stones, rather than new goods, have become a larger share of enquiries as prices firm and buyers look for value at larger sizes.
Imperial Star Gems trade desk1 min read
Enquiries specifically asking about previously-owned natural stones, rather than new goods, have grown as a share of the buying we see.
- Estate stones — natural diamonds bought back from a previous owner or an inherited piece, re-graded and re-sold — have always circulated in the trade, but buyer-initiated requests for them have picked up this year.
- The appeal is straightforward: an older, well-cut natural stone at a larger size can cost less than a new stone of the same specification, particularly since wholesale-to-retail spreads have narrowed on new goods.
- Older cuts also carry proportions that are harder to find in new production, which is part of what is driving interest in antique cushion and old European cuts specifically.
An estate stone still needs a current grading report before purchase, since an old certificate may predate today's standards or simply be out of date. If you are considering a previously-owned stone, ask us to check current documentation before you buy, whether or not the stone comes from us.
Market commentary drawn from publicly available market data and trade reporting, not investment advice. Prices move; figures are indicative and correct as of the date above.