Rubellite makes comeback in China, ICA conference hears

Rubellite is making a comeback in China, while lagoon color tourmaline has seen increases in demand and price, Andrew Lucas, Senior Vice President of Guild Gem Laboratories, told the ICA Congress.

He also said in a presentation that violet sapphire had seen explosive growth in China recently.

Supplies of Burmese rubies to the Chinese market were picking up, he added.

”There is an increase of Burmese rubies coming through the lab,” Mr Lucas said, noting a pickup in purchases by Chinese dealers in Japan.

Emeralds consumption is showing signs of picking up after a drop in the last half of 2024, Mr Lucas added.