Lab-grown diamond manufacturers: a guide for buyers in Hong Kong
China grows a large share of the world's HPHT diamonds, and India grows a large share of CVD; Hong Kong traders buy from both. Here is how Hong Kong jewellers and traders can buy from the grower: the local hub, labelling rules, customs points and working hours.
The local trade
Hong Kong is a free port and one of Asia's main diamond trading centres, with the September and March jewellery fairs drawing buyers from across the region.
China grows a large share of the world's HPHT diamonds, and India grows a large share of CVD; Hong Kong traders buy from both. Local wholesalers give you speed and memo; buying from the grower gives you price and control over the goods. Many buyers use both.
Labelling
Follow ISO 18323 and CIBJO terminology. Hong Kong's trade descriptions law makes misleading descriptions an offence, so always say "laboratory-grown".
Customs and tax
Hong Kong charges no import duty on diamonds, which makes it a common re-export point. Import and export declarations are still required.
This is general guidance, not customs advice. Rules and rates change; confirm them with a licensed customs broker before you agree a landed price.
Working with a grower
Hong Kong is 2.5 hours ahead of India.
Hong Kong fairs are a good place to meet Indian growers in person. Arrange a factory video call afterwards: a fair booth is not a factory.
- Run the 10 checks before you pay.
- Send the same RFQ to three suppliers.
- Ask for insured shipping to your door and agree the Incoterm in writing.
- Start with a trial parcel and check every report number on arrival.
Questions
Where do Hong Kong jewellers buy lab-grown diamonds?
Hong Kong is a free port and one of Asia's main diamond trading centres, with the September and March jewellery fairs drawing buyers from across the region. China grows a large share of the world's HPHT diamonds, and India grows a large share of CVD; Hong Kong traders buy from both.
How should lab-grown diamonds be labelled in Hong Kong?
Follow ISO 18323 and CIBJO terminology. Hong Kong's trade descriptions law makes misleading descriptions an offence, so always say "laboratory-grown".
From the publisher
Run INTI through the same checks.
INTI Diamonds grows CVD and HPHT lab-grown diamonds in India: white goods, fancy colours and large stones. Ask us for anything on the checklist, including a live video call of the factory before you pay.
We publish this guide. We would rather win your order by passing the checks than by hiding them.