The rough diamond market in the III quarter of 2009 showed impressive growth. The main producers of diamonds were able to raise about $ 2.5 billion for their products - this is comparable to pre-crisis sales volumes. The distribution of shares in the market is also close to the pre-crisis period: 48% for De Beers, 22% for ALROSA (excluding sales to Gokhran), 9% and 6% for BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto respectively, the rest went to small producers. The prices for raw materials have appreciably grown - on the average up to 40% from the level of the February lows.

The beginning of the fourth quarter also looks optimistic. De Beers announced the restoration of production to 80% of the pre-crisis and a significant increase in demand for its products. ALROSA managed to sell diamonds on the market in October for $ 255 million at prices significantly higher than the price list of Gokhran.

The revival in the rough diamond market continues to contrast with the diamond market, where the price increase at best is calculated in units of percent. The labor market in the US also does not give rise to optimism: last week the number of initial applications for unemployment benefits rose from 514 thousand to 531 thousand, while the expected growth was only up to 515 thousand. Imports of polished in the US continue to be low, Not exceeding the cost of 50% of the 2008 levels. The dynamics of the labor market in the United States raises serious concerns about the fact that Christmas sales in 2010 will be no better than in the failed 2009.

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