Diamantaires in Surat and Mumbai Eagerly Await De Beers’ “A Diamond Is Forever” Revival

The diamond industry in Surat and Mumbai has weathered its fair share of challenges recently, grappling with sluggish demand for diamond jewelry, particularly in key consumer markets such as the United States (US) and China

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Surat :  Diamantaires in the thriving hubs of Surat and Mumbai, the heart of India’s diamond industry, are brimming with excitement and optimism as they anticipate the resurgence of De Beers’ iconic “A Diamond Is Forever” campaign. This legendary slogan, etched into the annals of diamond history by Frances Gerety for De Beers in 1947, holds profound sentimental value for the diamond industry and its enduring connection with the essence of love and romance.

The diamond industry in Surat and Mumbai has weathered its fair share of challenges recently, grappling with sluggish demand for diamond jewelry, particularly in key consumer markets such as the United States (US) and China. The De Beers Group, recognizing the transformative power of its historic campaign, has unveiled a grand plan to rekindle the flame of consumer affection for natural diamonds.

De Beers’ commitment to breathe new life into the “A Diamond Is Forever” tagline includes a substantial investment of $20 million. This sizable sum will be allocated strategically to support consumer demand for natural diamonds during the crucial 2023 holiday season in the US and China, both pivotal destinations for Indian diamond exports.

For diamantaires in Surat, which stands as the world’s preeminent diamond manufacturing center, with an astonishing 13 out of every 14 diamonds processed globally, the revival of this campaign is a harbinger of brighter days ahead. The “Seize the Day” campaign, featuring the iconic “A Diamond Is Forever” tagline, is poised to inject fresh vigor into the diamond trade, offering a beacon of hope and resurgence.

The United States, responsible for approximately 45% of India’s polished diamond exports, and China, contributing another substantial 20%, hold a special place in the hearts of diamantaires in Surat and Mumbai. The $20 million investment is earmarked to reach end consumers in these markets with a timely and compelling message, perfectly timed for the holiday season.

De Beers’ recent consumer survey data for the US and China brings a smile to the faces of diamantaires. Natural diamonds have secured their position among the top three most coveted luxury items for women in both these nations. In the US, four out of five women recognize the profound significance of natural diamonds, viewing them as the ultimate expression of love and commitment. In contrast, the primary motivation behind Lab-Grown Diamond (LGD) purchases is often driven by considerations of price.

The survey’s findings are music to the ears of diamantaires, as it reveals that luxury jewelry consumers are four times more likely to choose natural diamonds for special occasions over LGDs. Moreover, an overwhelming majority express a deep sense of pride in wearing natural diamonds compared to their lab-grown counterparts.

Al Cook, CEO of De Beers Group, emphasized the enduring appeal of natural diamonds, stating, “Natural diamonds have remained icons of love for centuries. And De Beers advertising has remained iconic over the decades. We’re proud to build on this tradition by reviving and refreshing one of our most successful campaigns, ‘A Diamond Is Forever.'”

From the perspective of diamantaires in Surat and Mumbai, this revival couldn’t have come at a more opportune time. As one diamond company owner in Surat aptly puts it, “The ‘A Diamond Is Forever’ campaign by De Beers in the 1940s redefined the perception of diamonds, forever associating them with romance and love. The resurgence of this campaign will undoubtedly lead to a surge in our order books, just in time for the Christmas holiday season beginning in October.”

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