Russian diamond conglomerate Alrosa has committed itself to holding tenders several times a year for both rough and polished diamonds in New York, according to Diamond Manufacturers & Importers Association of America (DMIA) President Ronnie VanderLinden. This decision was made earlier this Spring during discussions between the DMIA and Alrosa aimed at strengthening Alrosa's business dealings in New York.

"We welcome Alrosa to New York and look forward to working closely with the company and its executives, creating a win-win scenario for both parties," says VanderLinden.

"Alrosa recognizes the opportunities New York's diamond and jewelry industry has to offer and the city's importance as the access point to the world's largest consumer market for diamonds, gems and jewelry," notes Vladlen Nogovitsyn Alrosa's Head of Marketing in a DMIA statement.

"The volume of business done in Manhattan is huge and we simply need to be there, where the action is," adds Alrosa Vice President Alexander Malinin, General Manager of Brillianty Alrosa, Alrosa's cutting and polishing division. Malinin notes that Alrosa is looking forward to moving into a larger office space at the World Diamond Tower, on 580 Fifth Avenue, to accommodate the extension of its platform of operations.

As part of its effort to expand its presence in the U.S. market, Alrosa recently signed a letter of intent with Sotheby's for the sale of its important stones.