U.S. Imports For Consumption Of Gemstones, Other Than Diamond, By Kind And Country Or Locality

This table provides detailed information on the quantities and customs values of various non-diamond gemstones imported into the United States, categorized by type and country or locality of origin. This data is crucial for understanding the supply dynamics of the U.S. gemstone market, which supports industries such as jewelry manufacturing, luxury goods, and investment markets. Tracking imports by kind and source helps stakeholders monitor trends in global gemstone trade, assess economic dependencies, and make informed decisions regarding trade policies and resource management.

Analysis of the 2021 data reveals notable shifts in both quantity and value compared to 2020. For emeralds, Colombia remains the dominant supplier, with imports increasing substantially from 101,000 carats valued at $106 million in 2020 to 206,000 carats worth $166 million in 2021. Conversely, India, a key source for rubies and sapphires, saw a significant decline in ruby imports from 728,000 carats ($6.63 million) to 375,000 carats ($4.73 million), and sapphire imports dropped from 1.4 million carats ($7.39 million) to 575,000 carats ($15.6 million), indicating a shift in market dynamics or sourcing strategies. Switzerland showed a remarkable increase in emerald import value, rising from $43.6 million to $70.8 million despite a decrease in quantity. Thailand, a major exporter of rubies and sapphires, experienced a sharp reduction in quantities imported—ruby imports fell from 1.38 million carats to 487,000 carats, and sapphire imports from 2.57 million carats to 1.07 million carats—while values generally increased or remained stable, suggesting a focus on higher-quality stones. These trends highlight evolving trade patterns and the importance of quality over volume in the U.S. gemstone market.