A diamond is often bought with the idea that it holds lasting value. But when it comes time to sell, many owners are caught off guard by how little they’re offered. What seemed like a stable investment now feels like a depreciating asset. The truth is, the diamond market isn’t what it used to be. Prices are shifting, buyer preferences are changing, and competition is growing. If you’re thinking about selling, the big question isn’t just “how much can I get?”—it’s why the market is behaving this way and whether waiting will make a difference.

Before you rush into a sale or hold out for a better offer, let’s take a step back and look at what’s really happening.

Why Diamond Prices Are Falling and Should You Sell Now?

2. Factors Behind the Decline in Diamond Prices

If diamond prices seem lower than expected, it’s not just bad luck—it’s a result of several market shifts that have been building over time. Understanding these factors can help you decide whether selling now is the right move or if holding onto your diamond might be a better option.

Supply and Demand Imbalance

The diamond market has always been shaped by supply and demand. In recent years, diamond production has increased, leading to a surplus. Major mining companies, including De Beers and Alrosa, have released more diamonds into the market, which pushes prices down. At the same time, demand has softened. Fewer people are buying expensive natural diamonds, and the resale market is oversaturated.

The Rise of Lab-Grown Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds used to be a niche alternative, but now they’re a major competitor. These stones are chemically identical to natural diamonds, but they cost significantly less. As more buyers opt for lab-grown diamonds, the resale value of natural diamonds drops. For someone trying to sell a pre-owned diamond, this means facing buyers who can find a similar-looking lab-grown alternative for a fraction of the price.

Economic Factors and Changing Consumer Habits

Macroeconomic conditions also play a role. Inflation, rising living costs, and economic uncertainty make luxury purchases less of a priority for many consumers. When budgets tighten, fewer people are willing to pay top dollar for a secondhand diamond.

Additionally, younger generations are shifting away from traditional diamond engagement rings. More couples are choosing alternative gemstones, vintage rings, or skipping diamonds altogether. This trend reduces demand for natural diamonds in both the retail and resale markets.

Industry Adjustments and Pricing Strategies

Diamond prices aren’t just set by jewelers and resellers—they’re influenced by major players like De Beers, which historically controlled much of the industry’s pricing. Recently, De Beers has been cutting prices to stay competitive with lab-grown diamonds and respond to weaker demand. This has a ripple effect, lowering the resale value of diamonds across the board.

All these factors combine to create a market where natural diamonds, especially pre-owned ones, are worth less than many sellers expect. The question is, should you sell now before prices drop further, or wait in hopes of a rebound?

Should You Sell Your Diamond Now?

If you’ve been told that your diamond is worth far less than expected, you might be wondering whether selling now is the right move or if it’s better to wait. Unfortunately, the answer isn’t straightforward. It depends on several factors, including your personal situation, market trends, and how much risk you’re willing to take.

When Selling Now Makes Sense

There are situations where selling immediately is the best option, even if prices aren’t ideal:

• You Need the Money – If you’re selling to cover an urgent expense, holding out for a better price may not be practical. In this case, the focus should be on finding the best possible offer in today’s market.
• Prices May Drop Further – While no one can predict the market with certainty, some experts believe diamond prices could continue to decline due to increased competition from lab-grown diamonds and changing consumer preferences. If that’s the case, waiting could mean getting even less later.
• Your Diamond Isn’t a Rare or High-Demand Stone – Some diamonds, like those with unique cuts, colors, or exceptional quality, may hold value better over time. But if your diamond is a standard cut and size, there’s little reason to expect a major price rebound.

When It Might Be Better to Wait

If you’re not in a rush, there are reasons to consider holding onto your diamond:

• Market Fluctuations – While prices are currently low, the diamond market has historically gone through cycles. If demand for natural diamonds rebounds, resale prices could improve.
• Auction or Private Sale Potential – Some diamonds sell better in specialty markets, such as high-end auctions or private sales. If you have a rare or highly desirable stone, it might be worth waiting for the right buyer.
• Sentimental Value – If your diamond holds personal significance, selling during a downturn might not be worth it. Keeping it for a future heir or repurposing it into another piece of jewelry could be a better alternative.

Key Takeaway

If you need to sell, focus on getting the best possible price in today’s market. If you can afford to wait and believe prices may recover, holding onto your diamond might be the smarter move

How to Sell a Diamond for the Best Price

If you’ve decided to sell your diamond, the next challenge is getting the best possible price. The resale market is tough, but the right approach can help you avoid lowball offers and sell your diamond to the right buyer. Here’s how to do it.

1. Choose the Right Selling Platform

Not all selling options are equal. Where you sell your diamond will significantly impact how much you get for it.

• Jewelers and Local Buyers – Most jewelry stores will offer a wholesale price, which is often much lower than what you originally paid. However, some independent jewelers may be willing to pay a bit more if your diamond fits their inventory needs.
• Pawnshops and Gold Buyers – These are the fastest ways to sell but usually offer the lowest payouts. They operate on quick resale margins, meaning you’ll likely get a fraction of your diamond’s actual worth.
• Online Marketplaces (eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace) – Selling directly to a buyer can yield a better price, but it requires patience and effort. You’ll need high-quality photos, a well-written description, and a safe way to complete the transaction.
• Specialized Diamond Resale Platforms (Worthy, I Do Now I Don’t, RapNet) – These platforms cater specifically to diamond resales, often offering auction-style sales or direct buying options that can result in a better payout than local jewelers.
• Auction Houses and Consignment Stores – If your diamond is unique or high-value, an auction house may attract serious buyers. However, fees and commission cuts can be high, and it may take months to finalize a sale.

2. Get a Professional Appraisal

Before listing your diamond, get it appraised by a certified gemologist. This will give you an accurate idea of its current market value and prevent you from accepting an unfair offer. Keep in mind:

• The appraisal value is not the same as the resale value. It’s often higher than what you’ll actually get.
• If your diamond has a GIA or AGS certification, it will be easier to sell and justify a higher price.

3. Set a Realistic Price

Most pre-owned diamonds sell for 30-50% of their original retail price—sometimes less. This can be disappointing, but setting an unrealistic price will only slow down the sale. Research similar diamonds on resale platforms to understand what buyers are actually paying.

4. Market Your Diamond Effectively

If selling directly, presentation matters:

• Take clear, well-lit photos from multiple angles.
• Include details like carat weight, cut, color, clarity, and any certification.
• Be honest about flaws—buyers will notice them anyway.

5. Negotiate Smartly

Expect buyers to negotiate. Set your asking price slightly higher than your minimum acceptable price to allow room for bargaining. Be prepared to counter low offers, but also know when to walk away.

The Changing Diamond Market: Should You Sell or Hold Onto Your Stone?

The diamond resale market isn’t what many expect. Prices have dropped, and competition from lab-grown diamonds, shifting consumer preferences, and industry changes have made it harder to sell at a high price.

If you need to sell now, choosing the right platform—specialized resale sites, direct buyers, or auctions—can help you get the best offer. If you’re not in a rush, waiting to see if the market improves or repurposing the stone might be smarter options.

Unlike gold, diamonds don’t always appreciate in value. Selling strategically, understanding market trends, and setting realistic expectations will help you get the most out of your diamond when the time comes.