Gems and jewelry runs at around $35 billion a year in Indian exports - second only to petroleum products. The geography is fairly specific. Surat processes roughly 90% of the world's diamonds - the city cuts and polishes stones that end up in jeweler sold from Dubai to New York, and has done so for decades. Jaipur is the colored gemstone center: emeralds, rubies, sapphires, tourmaline, and semi-precious stones are cut, set, and traded here at a scale that makes it one of the most important gemstone markets anywhere. Mumbai handles high-value gold and diamond jewelry for international luxury and mid-market brands. Rajkot and Ahmadabad supply gold and silver jewelry in volume for GCC and Southeast Asian buyers.
The subcategory range covers diamond, gold, silver, platinum, gemstone, pearl, bridal, traditional and ethnic, custom and designer, and imitation and fashion jewelry - plus rings, necklaces and chains, earrings and studs, bracelets and bangles, anklets, men's jewelry, body jewelry, beaded jewelry, jewelry sets, and packaging and display boxes. Imitation and fashion jewelry is one of the more active segments for international retail buyers. Manufacturers in Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur produce costume jewelry and fashion pieces at price points that work for fast fashion retail, online marketplaces, and promotional programmes - with design flexibility and MOQs that vary widely depending on complexity.
A few certification points matter here. Gold jewelry for EU and UK markets needs to meet local hallmarking standards. Diamond jewelry buyers should confirm Kimberley Process compliance for conflict-free sourcing. GIA, IGI, or SGL certification is available for diamonds and colored gemstones from established suppliers. For imitation and fashion jewelry going into European retail, REACH compliance for nickel and lead content in metal components is mandatory - check this on supplier profiles before ordering. Use the enquiry function to discuss stone grades, metal purity, custom design requirements, and lead times. Jewelry orders, particularly custom and bridal lines, need more upfront conversation than most other categories.
