Net rough diamond imports by the U.S. declined sharply in July, even tough gross imports were on the rise. U.S. net imports of 1,499 carats worth $10.9 million fell 56.7 percent by value.

Gross imports of 48,299 carats of rough diamonds worth $65.1 million increased year-over-year by 23.2 percent and 82.1 percent, respectively.

American traders are more interested in the higher value goods, as evident by the average value of imports. Gross imports averaged $1,347.69 per carat while net imports averaged $7,258 p/c.

Most of the U.S. imports were exported, 46,800 carats worth $54.2 million at an average value of $1,158.38 p/c.

The majority of rough imports were from Botswana, $20.8 million, followed by South Africa with $18.5 million. South Africa was the leading destination of exports, $13.5 million, followed by Belgium ($10.9 million).