Gem, jewellery exports rise 2.44% to USD 9.17 bn in Apr-Jul, studded gold up 21%
New Delhi, August 13
India's gross gem and jewellery exports rose 2.44 per cent in US dollar terms to USD 9.17 billion during April-July 2026, led by a 21.09 per cent rise in studded gold jewellery exports, the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council said.
The export growth was driven by value-added segments, with silver jewellery shipments rising 72.19 per cent and platinum jewellery exports increasing 17.20 per cent during the four-month period. Polished lab-grown diamond exports also grew 7.47 per cent.
In July, however, overall exports remained largely stable at USD 2.35 billion, up 0.38 per cent from USD 2.34 billion a year earlier. Gold jewellery exports rose 8.73 per cent during the month, with studded gold jewellery growing 21.36 per cent on demand from the UAE, Hong Kong and Singapore.
Gold prices fell 3.88 per cent in July to USD 4,073.92 per troy ounce from USD 4,238.32 in June, following a 10.28 per cent month-on-month decline in June.
GJEPC Chairman Kirit Bhansali said, "We remain optimistic. IIJS Bharat Premiere 2026 was a resounding success, attracting over 61,000 visitors, including more than 5,000 international visitors from 80 countries. The business generated at the show is expected to translate into shipments in the coming months, and we are confident this will contribute positively to India's export performance ahead."
Gold jewellery, including plain and studded jewellery, remained the largest product segment, with exports rising 5.87 per cent to USD 4.03 billion during April-July. Studded gold jewellery exports stood at USD 2.24 billion.
Silver jewellery exports rose to USD 508.18 million, while platinum jewellery shipments increased to USD 77.82 million. Polished lab-grown diamond exports stood at USD 408.50 million.
In July, the performance of other major categories was weaker. Cut and polished diamond exports declined 18.23 per cent, while polished lab-grown diamond exports fell 8.23 per cent. Silver and platinum jewellery exports also declined marginally during the month.
Bhansali also said the recently introduced Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill 2026 could help India move towards becoming a global diamond trading hub by providing a 15-year income tax exemption to foreign companies trading rough diamonds through Special Notified Zones.
— ANI
Reader Comments
The IIJS show attracting 5,000 international visitors is impressive! 61,000 visitors overall shows the global trust in Indian craftsmanship. And the new tax exemption for foreign companies in Special Notified Zones could really help us compete with Antwerp and Dubai as a diamond hub. This is how we grow—value addition and policy support. 👏
Interesting data. The 72% surge in silver jewellery is remarkable—ethnic silver pieces are having a moment globally. However, I'm slightly wary about the volatility in diamond exports. The gold price correction in June-July seems to have helped jewellery shipments, which makes sense as consumers find better entry points. Let's hope the momentum continues through Diwali season.
Very encouraging numbers for the jewellery sector! The studded gold growth shows the world values our intricate Indian craftsmanship. Also, it's smart of GJEPC to push lab-grown diamonds—they're eco-friendly and cost-effective. The tax exemption for rough diamond trading is a game-changer too. Proud of our industry's resilience despite global headwinds. 📈✨
Silver jewellery up 72% is fantastic! I think the global fashion trend towards silver bangles and oxidized pieces is helping Indian exporters. But I do want to see more focus on sustainable sourcing and ethical practices. Also, we rely heavily on a few markets—diversifying to Latin America and Africa could reduce risk. Still, let's celebrate the growth! 🙌
The numbers are solid, but the 18% drop in cut and polished diamond exports in
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.