Editor’s Note
This article discusses the recent high-value auction of a rare blue diamond, highlighting its significance as a tangible asset and a store of value, especially in times of economic uncertainty.
The high-value auction of a blue diamond for approximately ¥3.9 billion symbolizes the global re-evaluation of colored diamonds’ worth.
• The auctioned blue diamond, at 9.51 carats and graded Fancy Vivid Blue, is positioned at the highest rank and is extremely rare even among natural colored diamonds.
• Diamonds are a scarce resource whose supply cannot be adjusted like stocks or currency, possessing value as a tangible asset created by nature.
• Particularly during inflationary periods, their value tends to be more stable, garnering attention as a “high-value-preservation asset” for protecting wealth.
In recent years, driven by trends in home organization and end-of-life planning, there has been a sharp increase in consultations from people wanting to “do something about jewelry lying unused at home without knowing its value.”
In recent years, the movement to part with diamonds and gemstones has accelerated in Japan, driven by a confluence of several market changes.
• Gold prices have hit record highs, leading to a significant year-on-year increase in bullion sales.
• The weak yen has expanded export demand for pre-owned gemstones and branded jewelry.
• The spread of flea market apps like Mercari has popularized the trend of “re-evaluating accessories lying unused at home.”
• The permeation of estate organization and end-of-life planning has made appraisals of inherited gemstones more commonplace.
• Against the backdrop of growing sustainable consumption towards 2030, the overall reuse market is expanding year by year.
In addition to these factors, the extensive media coverage of the ¥3.9 billion blue diamond auction has further heightened awareness that “diamonds and gemstones might have unexpected value.”
At Omoio as well, inquiries regarding diamonds and gemstones have increased, with many people saying, “First, I want to know roughly how much it’s worth” or “I’m unsure whether to sell.”
Omoio employs specialist appraisers holding the GIA-GG (Gemological Institute of America Graduate Gemologist) qualification, who comprehensively evaluate the “inherent value” of each individual gemstone.
Appraisals are conducted using multifaceted criteria, including precious metals like gold and platinum, as well as color, clarity, carat, cut, presence of treatments, design, and brand value.
To date, they have handled over 30,000 purchase transactions and have received high ratings on Google reviews, with over 400 reviews and an average of ★4.8 (as of November 2024).
Many first-time users and those bringing in inherited jewelry have provided feedback such as, “They explained things carefully, which put me at ease,” and “I was happy it was valued higher than I imagined.”
Furthermore, appraisals are possible even for diamonds and gemstones without certification or for broken jewelry.
While many purchase shops often determine prices based “solely on weight,” Omoio properly evaluates the quality and rarity of diamonds and gemstones, conducting appraisals that accurately assess value that cannot be determined by weight alone.
In Japan as well, in contexts like inheritance and end-of-life planning, we are seeing an increase in consultations from people who ‘want to properly know the current value’ of the diamonds and gemstones they possess.
Especially with diamonds and gemstones, value is often determined by factors beyond just weight, making professional appraisal crucial.
Diamonds and gemstones only begin to realize their inherent value once they are examined. Even if you are unsure, please feel free to consult with us.”
