Gems and jewelry have been valued for their beauty and rarity for thousands of years. Today, the global market for these luxury items is worth billions of dollars, with international trade playing a crucial role in the industry’s success. In this article, we will explore the top international buyers and countries of gems and jewelry, examining the key factors driving demand and the implications for the industry.
Top International Buyers of Gems and Jewelry.

The United States is the world’s largest consumer of gems and jewelry, accounting for over 30% of global demand. According to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the U.S. market is driven by a combination of factors, including rising disposable incomes, a strong tradition of gift-giving, and the country’s large and diverse population. The U.S. also has a highly developed retail sector, with a vast network of jewelers, department stores, and e-commerce platforms catering to consumer demand.

China is the second-largest consumer of gems and jewelry, with a market share of around 14%. The country’s burgeoning middle class and rapid economic growth have fueled demand for luxury goods, with gems and jewelry being a popular status symbol. The Chinese market is also characterized by a preference for jade, which is highly valued in traditional Chinese culture, and a growing interest in colored gemstones such as rubies, sapphires, and emeralds.

India is another major market for gems and jewelry, accounting for around 8% of global demand. The country has a rich history of jewelry-making, with traditional designs and techniques passed down through generations. India’s jewelry industry is also supported by a large and growing middle class, as well as a strong culture of gift-giving for weddings and other special occasions. Gold is particularly popular in India, with the country being the world’s second-largest consumer of the precious metal after China.

Other important buyers of gems and jewelry include Japan, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Russia. Japan has a long tradition of valuing gems and jewelry for their aesthetic qualities, while the UAE has become a hub for luxury goods in the Middle East. Russia, meanwhile, is a significant buyer of diamonds, with the country’s demand being driven by its role as a major producer of the precious stone.

Top Countries of Origin for Gems and Jewelry
The global gems and jewelry industry is highly fragmented, with a wide range of countries involved in the production, processing, and trading of these luxury items. However, a few key players dominate the market, with each country having its unique strengths and competitive advantages.

India is the world’s largest exporter of gems and jewelry, accounting for around 14% of global trade. The country’s jewelry industry is supported by a highly skilled workforce, with traditional craftsmanship and modern technology combined to produce high-quality items at competitive prices. India’s exports are also driven by a wide range of products, including gold, diamonds, colored gemstones, and silver jewelry.

China is the second-largest exporter of gems and jewelry, with a market share of around 11%. The country’s jewelry industry has grown rapidly in recent years, with a focus on mass production and low-cost manufacturing. China’s exports are characterized by a high volume of low- to mid-range products, with the country being a major supplier of costume jewelry, fashion accessories, and synthetic gemstones.

Other important countries of origin for gems and jewelry include Thailand, the United States, and Hong Kong. Thailand is a significant exporter of colored gemstones, particularly rubies and sapphires, while the United States is a major producer of diamonds, with the state of Alaska being home to several large mines.