Polished diamond imports by the U.S. were on the rise in July, as the consumer market continues to revive. Net polished diamond imports totaled $642.6 million in July, rising 38.6 percent year-over-year and 8.3 percent compared to June.

The numbers are surprisingly positive in a number of aspects. The increase in the value of imports reflects not only rising diamond prices, but also an increase in the volume of imports. Net imports increased from June by 7.5 percent to 111,798.

The average value of net polished diamond imports stood at a very high $5,747.47 p/c, based on figures released by the U.S. Department of Commerce.

Gross imports in July of 1.2 million carats worth $2.1 billion averaged $1,727.09 p/c.